The United States no longer dominates basketball as it once did. The gap between Team USA and the rest of the world is closing fast.
At the 2024 Olympics, Team USA assembled a squad packed with National Basketball Association (NBA) superstars, such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, Jayson Tatum and Joel Embiid. It was effectively a Dream Team. However, they faced stiff competition on their way to the gold medal.
USA’s Olympic Close Calls
Despite having an elite roster, Team USA had some tough games at the 2024 Olympics. They faced a serious challenge from France, who pushed them into a close contest. Other nations also proved they could compete with the best.
This trend is not new. At the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup, Team USA finished a disappointing seventh. In 2023, they had to settle for fourth place, losing to Germany in the semi-finals.
These results show that overseas basketball is stronger than ever. NBA stars are no longer guaranteed to dominate on the world stage. With global talent improving, Team USA can no longer afford to be complacent.
France Leading the Way
France has produced some of the best young basketball players in recent years. Victor Wembanyama was the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft for the San Antonio Spurs (672.11). His countryman Zacharie Risacher followed as the top pick in 2024.
This marks a shift in NBA scouting trends. In the past, top draft picks were almost always American. Now, more overseas basketball players are entering the league and excelling.
France is not the only country developing elite prospects. Other European nations, along with Australia and Canada, have produced top NBA players. As a result, overseas leagues are becoming a legitimate pathway to the NBA.
NBA’s Global Expansion
The NBA has recognised the growing quality of international basketball. The league has invested in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) to develop talent across the continent. Reports suggest that the NBA is also considering investing significantly in Europe.
This could be a game-changer. European leagues have already produced stars such as Luka Dončić and Giannis Antetokounmpo. If the NBA invests in a European competition, it could accelerate the growth of talent outside the USA.
The rise of international basketball has also affected business. Online sports betting is available for international basketball and not only the NBA. Fans are paying more attention to overseas competitions, making them more commercially viable.
More Competitive NBA
The NBA itself has seen a major shift. Former overseas basketball players have won multiple MVP awards in recent years. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokić, and Joel Embiid have all dominated the league.
This trend shows no signs of stopping. Young stars such as Wembanyama and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are proving that international players can be franchise leaders. As more top prospects emerge, the NBA is becoming a more global league.
This has made the competition tougher for American players. In the past, the best young talent almost always came from the United States. Now, NBA teams are scouting talent worldwide, making the league more balanced.
Conclusion
Team USA is still the favourite in most international tournaments when they have their best players available. However, their dominance is no longer guaranteed. The gap between American and international basketball is closing fast.
With overseas leagues producing more talent, the NBA is adapting. The league’s investment in Africa and potential expansion in Europe show a clear trend. Basketball is becoming a truly global sport, and the USA must keep evolving to stay ahead.
