Representing Team USA at the Olympic level is an honor that dates back to the original Dream Team led by Michael Jordan in 1992. Despite a standout rookie season averaging 16.5 points and 7.9 rebounds, Oklahoma City Thunder forward-center Chet Holmgren did not make the cut for this year’s USA Basketball Select team for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Holmgren recently opened up about his feelings on the matter, sharing a unique perspective that sheds light on the experience.

On the “Road Trippin” podcast with hosts Allie Clifton, Richard Jefferson, and Channing Frye, Holmgren discussed his absence from the USA Men’s Select roster. Holmgren’s exclusion is notable, especially given that Warriors rookie Brandin Podziemski made the team despite a lower points average. When asked about this, Holmgren appeared somewhat at a loss for words but eventually responded, “I’ll just say you know I love all my people over there at USA Basketball, say for Grant Hill, etc., everybody who I’ve ever worked with over there,”. He clarified that he had no beef with any Team USA officials despite his disappointment.

Holmgren further elaborated, saying, “I got to make it clear that it is an honor to be part of whole program as a whole just because of the history and obviously all of the players who are currently in it, have been in it so I don’t want to make it sound like it’s an honor because it it but at the same time like USA Select is not a glorious thing,” Holmgren’s participation in the 2023 USA Men’s Basketball Select team highlights his familiarity with the program, although this year he was overlooked in favor of college freshman and potential 2025 No. 1 draft pick Cooper Flagg.

Chet Holmgren on why he couldn’t don the red-white-blue jersey this summer

Podcast hosts were surprised by Holmgren’s absence from the Team USA Select team, especially considering his previous involvement. They wanted to hear Holmgren’s thoughts on not making the team this summer. He responded calmly, “Uh you know everything just wasn’t in the books for this summer and that’s what it was but uh you know any chance I have an opportunity to represent USA and you know the red white blue, go out there and hoop at the same time.”

Chet Holmgren’s words somehow reminded me that the 22-year-old still had hopes in him for donning the Team USA in future competitions, including the Paris Olympics. However, that might not be the practical scenario since necessary changes have already been made after Kawhi Leonard’s omission. Now, the Celtics star Derrick White is there to assist the team, and coach Steven Kerr is playing with the combinations rather than calling new players.

Still, Chet Holmgren believes that it was not “just in the cards” to get his spot in the USA Select team this year. Unlike other athletes who might harbor resentment or point fingers, Holmgren remains composed and realistic about his situation. He has accepted his fate and is focused on contributing to a successful season with the Thunder.