Los Angeles to Host 2028 Olympics: Changes Loom for Team USA Basketball
The countdown to the 2028 Olympics has officially begun, with Los Angeles set to host the games for the third time in history. Amid the excitement of what's to come, a significant shift is underway within Team USA Basketball.
Steve Kerr, the current head coach of Team USA Basketball, has made it clear that the Paris 2024 Games will be his final appearance at the helm. Kerr pointed to a natural cycle of leadership transition, stating, "To me, it's a two-year; it's a cycle. Pop coached a World Cup and the Olympics, now it's my turn to pass the baton. I think that's kind of how it should be."
His departure marks the end of an era, ushered in by the likes of Gregg Popovich and Mike Krzyzewski. Kerr acknowledged the distinct difference in approach between now and the previous leadership. "I think it was different the last go-around with Coach K (Mike Krzyzewski) and Jerry (Colangelo), when they were really establishing this culture and this system where guys had to commit for a couple years. Made sense for Coach K to stay on. But I think where we are now, one cycle and you move on," Kerr explained.
As speculation mounts over who will succeed Kerr, the frontrunners appear to be familiar faces in the world of professional basketball: Erik Spoelstra and Tyronn Lue. Both served as assistant coaches under Kerr during the Paris Games, making them logical candidates to step into the lead role.
Spoelstra, the Miami Heat's head coach, brings a distinguished resume. Having led his team to two NBA championships and six NBA Finals appearances, his pedigree is unquestionable. On the other hand, Tyronn Lue, the current head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers, boasts a championship title with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016 and three NBA Finals appearances. Their collective experience is further solidified by their recent tenure, leading the 2023 FIBA World Cup squad to a commendable fourth-place finish.
Beyond the coaching changes, the Team USA roster is also experiencing notable shifts. Prominent players like Jaylen Brown are being considered for the 2028 Olympics, bringing fresh talent into the mix. Meanwhile, Joel Embiid's decision looms large as he contemplates representing Cameroon rather than the United States in Los Angeles.
One definitive decision has come from young star Anthony Edwards, who has ruled out competing in the 2027 FIBA World Cup. His choice signals a potential shift in focus towards other international competitions or personal commitments.
The path to Los Angeles starts with the Paris 2024 Games, where Kerr and his coaching staff, including Spoelstra and Lue, aim to leave a lasting mark. The journey from Paris to Los Angeles will be defined by this natural transition, driven by a blend of seasoned leadership and emerging talents.