Ranking The Greatest USA Dream Teams Including The 2024 Avengers

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Team USA’s 2024 roster for the Olympics in Paris is set, and it is headlined by future Hall of Famers LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant. As great as this roster is, it might not be the best ever, even if they are called the “Avengers” following the embarrassing fourth-place finish by Team USA in the 2023 FIBA Tournament.

We have collected the greatest “Dream Teams” in every Olympics squad since 1992 when the original Dream Team headlined by Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson dominated the competition. By focusing on the talent on each roster and what they did in the Olympics, here is the ranking of all nine Team USA rosters, including the 2024 squad that will represent their country in 2024.

1. 1992 Dream Team

Starters: Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Karl Malone, Patrick Ewing

Bench: John Stockton, Clyde Drexler, Chris Mullin, Larry Bird, Christian Laettner, Charles Barkley, David Robinson

Results at Olympic Games in Barcelona: Gold Medal (8-0)

Average Margin Of Victory: 43.8 Points

The 1992 Dream Team is often referred to as the “Original Dream Team,” and for good reason. This squad was the first USA Men’s Olympic basketball team to feature active NBA players, marking a pivotal moment in the history of international basketball. Prior to 1992, the United States sent college players to compete in the Olympics, but this changed with the introduction of the Dream Team, which showcased the best of the NBA on the global stage.

Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird were instrumental in recruiting other top NBA stars to join the team, ensuring that the Dream Team was indeed a dream for basketball fans worldwide. The cultural impact of the Dream Team was immense as they became global ambassadors for the NBA and helped popularize basketball in countries where it had previously been an afterthought.

On the court, the Dream Team’s style of play was a perfect blend of unselfishness and individual brilliance. Led by the playmaking of Magic Johnson and the scoring prowess of Michael Jordan, the team prioritized ball movement and teamwork, often making the extra pass to find the open man. This selfless style of play was encapsulated in the iconic image of Michael Jordan passing to a wide-open Magic Johnson for a layup during the gold medal game against Croatia.

At the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, the Dream Team was a spectacle unlike any other. They captivated audiences with their high-flying dunks, precision passing, and suffocating defense. Their closest game was a 32-point victory over Croatia in the gold medal game, highlighting their dominance throughout the tournament. The Dream Team’s average margin of victory was a staggering 43.8 points per game, and this is the greatest collection of basketball talent ever.

2. 2008 Redeem Team

Starters: Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard

Bench: Jason Kidd, Deron Williams, Michael Redd, Dwyane Wade, Tayshaun Prince, Chris Bosh, Carlos Boozer

Results at Olympic Games in Beijing: Gold Medal (8-0)

Average Margin Of Victory: 27.9 points

The 2008 Redeem Team was assembled with a clear mission in mind: to reclaim the gold medal that had eluded the USA Men’s Olympic basketball team in 2004. This team was a perfect mix of seasoned veterans and emerging stars, making them one of the most balanced and talented squads in USA Basketball history.

The starting lineup featured Chris Paul at point guard, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James on the wings, and Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard in the frontcourt. This lineup combined exceptional playmaking, scoring, and defensive prowess, making them a formidable force on both ends of the court. Chris Paul’s court vision and passing, Kobe Bryant’s scoring ability and competitive spirit, LeBron James’ all-around excellence, Carmelo Anthony’s scoring touch, and Dwight Howard’s rim protection and rebounding made for a well-rounded starting five.

The 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing were a redemption tour for the USA Men’s basketball team, and the Redeem Team rose to the occasion. They dominated the competition, finishing with an undefeated record of 8-0 and capturing the gold medal. Their average margin of victory was an impressive 27.9 points per game, highlighting their dominance throughout the tournament.

One of the most memorable moments of the Redeem Team’s Olympic run was their gold medal game against Spain. In a hard-fought contest, Team USA emerged victorious with a final score of 118-107, showcasing their resilience and determination to reclaim the gold medal. They showcased the best of American basketball talent and teamwork, setting the stage for future USA Basketball teams to continue their legacy of excellence on the international stage.

3. 2024 Team USA

Starters: Stephen Curry, Devin Booker, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Joel Embiid

Bench: Tyrese Haliburton, Jrue Holiday, Anthony Edwards, Kawhi Leonard, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo

Results at Olympic Games in Paris: TBD

Average Margin Of Victory: TBD

The 2024 Team USA squad has the potential to be a version of the Redeem Team 2.0 following the 2023 FIBA World Cup disaster when not a single medal was won. If this squad had been brought together five or six years ago, it might rival the 1992 Dream Team because the likes of LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant would be right in their primes. Regardless, each superstar is still playing at a high level and they will no doubt dominate the competition with the support behind them.

The fact that France national Joel Embiid will represent Team USA in the paint makes this side extremely scary, especially with Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo behind him. Embiid is the reigning NBA MVP and he could be a difference-maker. Youngsters such as Jayson Tatum, Tyrese Haliburton, and Anthony Edwards will bring elite athleticism and scoring ability against the opposition. Even Kawhi Leonard and Jrue Holiday provide elite defensive impact as veterans.

Looking at the potential competition, Nikola Jokic with Serbia will be a problem and so will Giannis Antetokounmpo with Greece. Luka Doncic will lead Slovenia to battle while Canada features a host of stars, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jamal Murray, and RJ Barrett. France and Spain are always threats and won’t be easy to defeat while reigning FIBA World Champions Germany will have MVP Dennis Schroder lead the way for them. As good as the competition is, it is hard to imagine a scenario whereby Team USA doesn’t go 8-0 and bring home another gold medal.

4. 2012 Team USA

Starters: Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Tyson Chandler

Bench: Russell Westbrook, Deron Williams, James Harden, Andre Iguodala, Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Love, Anthony Davis

Results at Olympic Games in London: Gold Medal (8-0)

Average Margin Of Victory: 32.1 points

The 2012 Team USA was another star-studded roster assembled to defend the gold medal won in 2008 and further solidify USA Basketball’s dominance on the global stage. This team was a blend of established NBA superstars and up-and-coming talents, making them a formidable force in the 2012 Olympic Games in London. The starting lineup featured Chris Paul at point guard, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James on the wings, and Kevin Durant and Tyson Chandler in the frontcourt. This lineup was a perfect combination of playmaking, scoring, and defensive prowess.

Chris Paul’s leadership and passing, Kobe Bryant’s scoring and tenacity, LeBron James’ all-around excellence, Kevin Durant’s scoring versatility, and Tyson Chandler’s rim protection and rebounding made for a well-balanced and highly skilled starting five.

Off the bench, the 2012 Team USA had an abundance of talent and depth to rely on. Russell Westbrook and Deron Williams provided additional playmaking and scoring, James Harden brought scoring and playmaking off the bench, Andre Iguodala added defensive versatility, and Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Love, and Anthony Davis provided scoring and rebounding in the frontcourt.

The 2012 Olympic Games in London were a showcase of Team USA’s dominance, as they cruised through the competition with an undefeated record of 8-0 and captured the gold medal.

One of the defining moments of the 2012 Team USA’s Olympic run was their gold medal game against Spain, a rematch of the 2008 gold medal game. In a closely contested and highly competitive game, Team USA emerged victorious with a final score of 107-100.

5. 1996 Team USA

Starters: Gary Payton, Reggie Miller, Scottie Pippen, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon

Bench: John Stockton, Penny Hardaway, Mitch Richmond, Grant Hill, Charles Barkley, David Robinson, Shaquille O’Neal

Results at Olympic Games in Atlanta: Gold Medal (8-0)

Average Margin Of Victory: 31.8 points

The 1996 Team USA was the second incarnation of the USA Men’s Olympic basketball team to feature NBA players. While not as legendary as the original Dream Team of 1992, this team was still loaded with talent and had a strong mix of veteran leadership and emerging stars. The starting lineup of the 1996 team was anchored by defensive stalwarts Gary Payton and Scottie Pippen, sharpshooter Reggie Miller, and the formidable frontcourt duo of Karl Malone and Hakeem Olajuwon.

This starting five combined exceptional defensive intensity, perimeter shooting, and inside scoring, making them a versatile and effective unit on both ends of the floor. Off the bench, the 1996 Team USA had a wealth of talent and depth, with future Hall of Famers John Stockton, Charles Barkley, David Robinson, and Shaquille O’Neal providing additional playmaking, scoring, and rim protection.

The 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta were a triumphant return to gold for the USA Men’s basketball team, as they dominated the competition with an undefeated record of 8-0. One of the memorable moments of the 1996 Team USA’s Olympic run was their gold medal game against Yugoslavia. In a competitive and hard-fought game, Team USA emerged victorious with a final score of 95-69, showcasing their defensive prowess and team chemistry.

6. 2016 Team USA

Starters: Kyrie Irving, Paul George, Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony, DeMarcus Cousins

Bench: Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan, Jimmy Butler, Klay Thompson, Harrison Barnes, Draymond Green, DeAndre Jordan

Results at Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro: Gold Medal (8-0)

Average Margin Of Victory: 22.5 points

The 2016 Team USA was assembled to capture another gold medal in the Rio de Janeiro Olympics and continue the legacy of USA Men’s Olympic basketball dominance. This team was a blend of young talent and experienced veterans, making them a formidable force on the international stage. The starting lineup featured Kyrie Irving as point guard, Klay Thompson and Kevin Durant on the wings, and Carmelo Anthony and DeMarcus Cousins in the frontcourt.

This lineup combined exceptional scoring ability, perimeter shooting, and inside presence, making them a versatile and potent offensive unit. Kyrie Irving’s ball-handling and scoring, Klay Thompson’s shooting prowess, Kevin Durant’s scoring versatility, Carmelo Anthony’s scoring touch, and DeMarcus Cousins’ inside scoring and rebounding made for a well-rounded and highly skilled starting five.

Off the bench, the 2016 Team USA had a deep and talented roster to rely on. Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan provided additional scoring and playmaking, Jimmy Butler brought defensive intensity and versatility, Paul George added scoring and perimeter defense, and Harrison Barnes, Draymond Green, and DeAndre Jordan provided frontcourt depth and defensive presence. Their average margin of victory was 22.5 points per game and their gold medal game against Serbia resulted in a final score of 96-66 in the USA’s favor.

7. 2000 Team USA

Starters: Gary Payton, Ray Allen, Vince Carter, Kevin Garnett, Alonzo Mourning

Bench: Jason Kidd, Tim Hardaway, Allan Houston, Steve Smith, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Antonio McDyess, Vin Baker

Results at Olympic Games in Sydney: Gold Medal (8-0)

Average Margin Of Victory: 21.6 points

Even if they rank seventh among the greatest Olympic rosters since 1992, the 2000 squad was stacked with talent and winners. They dominated the competition with an undefeated record of 8-0. Their average margin of victory was an impressive 21.6 points per game, highlighting their dominance and the gap in talent between Team USA and the rest of the field. The team was led by Gary Payton, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett and we also got to witness arguably the greatest in-game dunker in history when Vince Carter rose over 7’2 Frederic Weis.

The highlight of the 2000 Team USA’s Olympic run was their gold medal game against France. In a competitive and hard-fought game, Team USA emerged victorious with a final score of 85-75, showcasing their defensive prowess and team chemistry even if they are often forgotten. The 2000 Team USA successfully continued the tradition of excellence established by the original Dream Team of 1992 and the squad of 1996.

8. 2020 Team USA (2021)

Starters: Damian Lillard, Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, Bam Adebayo

Bench: Jrue Holiday, Zach LaVine, Devin Booker, Khris Middleton, Jerami Grant, Draymond Green, JaVale McGee

Results at Olympic Games in Tokyo: Gold (5-1)

Average Margin Of Victory: 16.6 points

The 2020 Team USA, which competed in 2021 due to the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics, faced a unique set of challenges compared to previous USA Men’s Olympic basketball teams. Despite a slow start and a reshuffled roster, this team was able to overcome adversity and capture the gold medal, thanks in large part to the outstanding performance of Kevin Durant.

Kevin Durant was the game-changer for Team USA in the 2020 Olympics, showcasing why he might be considered the greatest player in Team USA history. Durant averaged 20.7 points per game, becoming the all-time leading scorer in USA Men’s Olympic basketball history. His scoring ability, versatility, and leadership were instrumental in guiding Team USA to the gold medal and solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever wear the USA jersey.

The starting lineup featured Damian Lillard as point guard, Bradley Beal and Kevin Durant on the wings, and the versatile frontcourt duo of Jayson Tatum and Bam Adebayo. This starting five combined scoring ability, perimeter shooting, and inside scoring, making them a versatile and effective unit on both ends of the floor. The 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo were a challenging but ultimately triumphant journey for the USA Men’s basketball team.

After a slow start in the group stage, Team USA regrouped and dominated in the knockout stage, finishing with a record of 5-1 and capturing the gold medal. Their average margin of victory was 16.6 points per game, highlighting their resilience and ability to overcome adversity.

9. 2004 Team USA

Starters: Stephon Marbury, Allen Iverson, Richard Jefferson, Lamar Odom, Tim Duncan

Bench: Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Shawn Marion, Carlos Boozer, Amar’e Stoudemire, Emeka Okafor

Results at Olympic Games in Athens: Bronze Medal (5-3)

Average Margin Of Victory: 4.6 points

The 2004 Team USA faced one of the most challenging and disappointing campaigns in USA Men’s Olympic basketball history. The team, often referred to as the “Nightmare Team” due to their unexpected struggles, failed to win the gold medal for the first time since NBA players began participating in the Olympics.

Despite having a roster filled with talented NBA players, including future Hall of Famers like Tim Duncan and Allen Iverson in their primes, the 2004 Team USA struggled to find cohesion and consistent play throughout the tournament. It did not help that LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Carmelo Anthony were rookies and were unable to impact the tournament as they would in their later years.

After a promising start in the group stage, Team USA faced unexpected challenges and suffered losses to Puerto Rico, Lithuania, and Argentina in the preliminary round. Despite advancing to the knockout stage, the team failed to reach the gold medal game and settled for the bronze medal. Among all the best Olympic teams since 1992, the 2004 squad was one built without teamwork and cohesion.