The Legacy Lives On: Team USA's Meaningful Jersey Numbers for Paris Olympics
As the USA men's basketball national team gears up for the Olympics, each player's jersey number tells a profound story, emphasizing the remarkable legacy they are stepping into. This year, the team members were handed bag tags listed with the names of past legends who wore the same numbers. These small but significant gestures highlight the continuity and history of Team USA.
Jayson Tatum will don the coveted No. 10 jersey. This number holds a special place in Team USA's history, having been worn by the likes of Kevin Garnett, Reggie Miller, Anthony Edwards, and the iconic Kobe Bryant. Tatum, aware of the illustrious footsteps he follows, embraces the responsibility with a mix of pride and anticipation.
Another key player, Bam Adebayo, will be sporting the No. 13 jersey. This number comes with its own storied past. In the 2004 and 2012 Olympics, it adorned the backs of Tim Duncan and Kevin Love, respectively. Moreover, the colossal Shaquille O'Neal wore No. 13 during the 1992 and 1996 Games. Interestingly, Adebayo also sports No. 13 for the Miami Heat. Reflecting on this connection, he shared, "I love the number because my mother also wore it in high school."
LeBron James is set to make headlines by playing in his fourth Olympic Games, a testament to his enduring prowess and dedication to the sport. For this significant event, James will wear No. 6, a number he has made iconic throughout his career. This number is not unfamiliar to Team USA fans, as it was also worn by Team USA coach Steve Kerr during the 1986 FIBA World Cup, as well as by Penny Hardaway, Patrick Ewing, and the legendary Bill Russell.
Meanwhile, Tyrese Haliburton is set to wear No. 9, a number with its own prestigious lineage. This jersey number has been previously worn by greats like Michael Jordan, Vince Carter, Andre Iguodala, DeMar DeRozan, Dwayne Wade, and even LeBron James in his earlier Olympic appearances. When asked about his number, Haliburton remarked, "I was given this number ... I'm the young guy so I just get thrown a number, so not a bad number to get thrown." Appreciating the legacy further, he added, "It's a pretty good crew."
Stephen Curry, one of the most formidable shooters in NBA history, will be wearing No. 4. This number has been carried by other distinguished names in the past, such as Jimmy Butler, Chauncey Billups, Carlos Boozer, and Allen Iverson. Curry, recognizing the heritage of his jersey number, playfully commented, "That's a pretty solid list."
These jersey numbers serve as more than identifiers; they are an acknowledgment of the immense talent and dedication of those who came before. As these players take the court in Paris, they will undoubtedly be inspired by the legacies they continue to build upon. Each dribble, pass, and shot will be infused with the spirit of the legends whose numbers they wear, driving them to strive for greatness in the coming Games.