How Does LeBron James, Stephen Curry and Other Big Guns’ Absence From FIBA World Cup Benefit the US Team?

Basketball fans eagerly await the upcoming FIBA World Cup in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia. The prestigious international event has a lot of hope attached to the entire series. Many notable names participate even from the USA, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Contrary to fans’ expectations, names like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry were not on the list. In fact, the team is a mix of young talents across the league. Due to the absence of several NBA luminaries from this year’s tournament, Team USA won’t flaunt the same air of dominance they’ve had in the past.

In the list of the 2023 FIBA World Cup USA roster, only Bobby Portis holds championship-level experience. Furthermore, only four players have witnessed the energy of an all-star game. On top of that, only 5 players out of 12 witnessed playoffs’ intensity last season. Austin Reaves brings the deepest run from the Los Angeles Lakers. However, Team USA has a reputation for being the highest force in basketball. Accompanied by elite masterminds in the sport, the young roster hopes to retrieve gold in the global tournament.

Can the lack of Curry, Durant, and James elevate young players?

Many have criticized the 2023 USA roster as weaker than the 2019 lineup, as that had the worst FIBA record. However, it’s important to note that this year’s selection was carefully considered. For example, in the past, LaMelo Ball and Trae Young expressed their eagerness to represent their country. Trae has rightfully earned his superstar status, a quality that significantly benefits the national team. On the other hand, Ball’s international experience shines through, having played on three continents during his teenage years. However, their candidacies were declined due to concerns about their ball-dominant playing style, which could leave them vulnerable on the defensive end.

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As a result, even though the current roster does not appear as stacked as previous editions, it still boasts the most talent in the World Cup. Regarding offense, All-Stars Anthony Edwards and Brandon Ingram bring substantial experience. Assisting them are the rapidly developing skill sets of Jalen Brunson, Austin Reaves, and Tyrese Haliburton. Defensively, the team benefits from well-rounded protectors in Jaren Jackson and Bobby Portis.

In recent history, when donning the national jersey, NBA role players tend to elevate their performances. Jordan Clarkson is a prime example of this notion. He has NBA career averages of 15.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists. When playing for his national team, the Philippines, he averaged 26 points with 6.5 rebounds and 5.5 assists in 2019. 

Amidst many possibilities, fans can anticipate the emergence of several intriguing lineups. However, the scenario would have been different if stars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, or Kevin Durant were on the team. The current approach of Team USA offers a genuine assessment of the nation’s basketball prowess. It also allows up-and-coming talents to thrive in the flashiest of lights.

Underrated factors that set Team USA apart 

The USA team formation bets on experience and refined skill with youthful energy and passion to prove themselves. Without leaders like Curry and LeBron James, the team sets on a natural course to throne their new leader. However, it is not to say that the young 12-man-roster lacks talent.

The blend of diverse talents paves the way for harmony in the 2023 roster. Jalen Brunson, known for his leadership, playmaking, and passing skills, can extend to the capable Reaves and Haliburton. Paolo Banchero, the youngest member of the roster, brings his size to the table. He can take on pivotal moments alongside Jackson to reinforce the team’s rebounding efforts while helping him find his rhythm on offense. Miles Bridges’ defensive prowess could offset Brunson’s defensive gaps on the perimeter. Ingram’s remarkable versatility offers compatibility with almost the entire backcourt.

Additionally, the brilliance of the 2023 Team USA lies beyond the court. Their coaching staff, led by the mastermind behind the best basketball team of the last decade, Steve Kerr, is a standout. Furthermore, basketball visionaries like Tyronn Lue, Mark Few, and Miami’s Eric Spoelstra play pivotal roles in shaping the players. 

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As a result, the chemistry among the players is already evident. Following the training camp, most officials identified Jackson as the standout player on the roster. This caused a debate among fans who believed Anthony Edwards to be the most talented on the roster. However, when asked the same question, Edwards confidently pointed to Josh Hart. Recognizing the significance of consistency over flashy moments, Edwards praised Josh for his unwavering contributions in every play.