Mavs' Kyrie Irving Reveals 'Deep Desire': Team USA at Paris Olympics Plans
DALLAS — Kyrie Irving remains focused on guiding the Dallas Mavericks to a solid finish to the 2023-24 NBA season alongside Luka Doncic. When it's finished, Irving desires to compete with Team USA at the Paris Olympics.
According to Shams Charania on the "Run It Back" show, Irving has a "deep desire" to play for Team USA during the Paris Olympics this summer.
"I'm told Kyrie Irving has a deep desire to represent his country, represent the USA in the Paris Olympics this summer. He wants to be part of this team," Charania reported.
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Irving boasts a track record of propelling USA Basketball to victories, highlighted by securing gold medals at the 2014 FIBA World Cup and during the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro. It shouldn't go without mentioning he was named the MVP of the 2014 FIBA World Cup. The 2016 NBA champion would have the chance to add more hardware to his career resume with another Olympic run.
Irving was included among the 41-player pool announced by USA Basketball recently. He will be vying for one of the 12 roster spots. Irving is among 12 other players who have previously secured gold medals with USA Basketball and are on an esteemed list.
This roster includes Kevin Durant, who has won a gold medal three times; LeBron James and Chris Paul, each with two gold medals; and Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo, Damian Lillard, Devin Booker, James Harden, Jayson Tatum, Jimmy Butler, Jrue Holiday, and Paul George, all of whom have been part of gold-winning teams.
Irving has averaged 25.4 points, 5.2 assists, and 5.0 rebounds in 45 games this season for the Mavs, shooting an impressive 49.3 percent, 41.7 percent from the perimeter, and 90.6 on free throws. While having a smaller guard makes international play more challenging at times for a team, Irving's skill set undoubtedly would make an impact.
