Anthony Davis played a crucial role for Team USA, earning praise from former NBA players post-game.
Anthony Davis and Devin Booker played crucial roles in Team USA’s journey to a fifth consecutive gold medal, with Davis being recognized as a key contributor.
Former NBA player and fellow Olympic gold medalist Andre Iguodala shared on a post via X, that he thought Devin Booker and Anthony Davis were the ‘unsung heroes’ of Team USA’s historic run for a fifth consecutive gold medal.
While stars like LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant garnered most of the headlines, Davis quietly made a significant impact during the gold medal game against France. He effectively matched up against Victor Wembanyama, limiting the French star all game.
In the final game, Davis recorded eight points, 10 rebounds, one assist, three steals, and four blocks, showcasing his defensive prowess.
Throughout the tournament, Davis averaged 8.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, two assists, 1.5 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. His consistent performance was essential to the team’s success and crucial in beating France in the Gold Medal Game.
Booker also stepped up, contributing 15 points, six rebounds, and three assists in the gold medal match, tying him for second in scoring on the team with Durant.
In the postgame press conference, Team USA’s head coach Steve Kerr heaped high praise for the Phoenix Suns player.
“Devin Booker is an incredible basketball player,” Kerr said. “Nobody asked about him. He was our unsung MVP. I just wanted to say that.”
Davis and Booker both played for Kentucky in college under former coach John Calipari. Davis led the Wildcats to their most recent national championship in 2012, while Booker was on the team that lost in the Final Four after getting to 38-0.
Both players have previous Olympic experience, with Davis winning his first gold medal in London in 2012 and Booker earning his in Tokyo in 2020.
As the 2028 Olympics approach, which will be held in Los Angeles, Davis has not yet confirmed his plans to compete but has expressed interest in participating.
The recent victory over France may mark the last time fans see basketball legends James, Curry, and Durant play together on the international stage.
If Davis and Booker compete in 2028, they could lead a new generation of American talent in the quest for another gold medal.