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American basketball at the Olympics facts for kids

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The United States has a rich history in Olympic basketball. Their men's teams have often been the best in the world, winning many gold medals. Two teams are especially famous: the "Dream Team" from 1992 and the "Redeem Team" from 2008. These teams featured some of the greatest basketball players ever.

The 1992 "Dream Team"

Before 1992, professional basketball players from the NBA were not allowed to play in the Olympics. Only amateur players or professionals from other countries could compete. In 1989, FIBA, the group that runs international basketball, changed this rule. This meant the best NBA players could finally represent their country.

This change led to the creation of the 1992 U.S. Men's Olympic Basketball Team, famously known as the "Dream Team." They played in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain. This team was truly special because it brought together many of the biggest stars in basketball at the time.

Who Was on the Dream Team?

The 1992 Dream Team was full of legendary players. Here are the athletes and coaches who made history:

Dream Team Coaches

The Dream Team dominated the competition, winning every game by a large margin. They won the gold medal, showing the world the power of NBA basketball.

The 2008 "Redeem Team"

After the success of the Dream Team, the U.S. men's basketball team continued to win gold medals in 1996 and 2000. However, they faced challenges in the early 2000s, winning only a bronze medal in 2004. This led to the formation of the 2008 team, nicknamed the "Redeem Team." Their goal was to bring the gold medal back to the United States.

The Redeem Team played in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China. They were determined to prove that U.S. basketball was still the best in the world.

Who Was on the Redeem Team?

The 2008 Redeem Team also featured many famous NBA stars. Here is their roster:

  • Carlos Boozer (Utah Jazz)
  • Jason Kidd (Dallas Mavericks)
  • LeBron James (Cleveland Cavaliers)
  • Deron Williams (Utah Jazz)
  • Michael Redd (Milwaukee Bucks)
  • Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat)
  • Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers)
  • Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic)
  • Chris Bosh (Toronto Raptors)
  • Chris Paul (New Orleans Hornets)
  • Tayshaun Prince (Detroit Pistons)
  • Carmelo Anthony (Denver Nuggets)

Redeem Team Coaches

The Redeem Team successfully won the gold medal in Beijing, achieving their goal of "redeeming" the U.S. team's standing in international basketball.

American Men's Olympic Basketball Medals

The U.S. men's basketball team has a long and impressive history of winning medals at the Olympics. They have won many gold medals, showing their strength in the sport.

  • 1936: 1st Med 1.png
  • 1948: 1st Med 1.png
  • 1952: 1st Med 1.png
  • 1956: 1st Med 1.png
  • 1960: 1st Med 1.png
  • 1964: 1st Med 1.png
  • 1968: 1st Med 1.png
  • 1972: 2nd Med 2.png (The team refused to accept the silver medal due to a controversial ending to the game.)
  • 1976: 1st Med 1.png
  • 1980: Did not participate (The U.S. boycotted the games that year.)
  • 1984: 1st Med 1.png
  • 1988: 3rd Med 3.png
  • 1992: 1st Med 1.png (First time professional NBA players were allowed to play.)
  • 1996: 1st Med 1.png
  • 2000: 1st Med 1.png
  • 2004: 3rd Med 3.png
  • 2008: 1st Med 1.png
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American basketball at the Olympics Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.