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United States men’s national team coach Steve Kerr has strongly backed New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson as he weighs his options ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
“There’s a reason he’s on our list,” Kerr said, according to the New York PostIt is Stéphane Bondy. “Because he’s a great player, a great character, a leader. He’s everything you want as a player. He’s at the top of our list and he’s definitely someone we’re looking at.”
Brunson represented the United States at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, average 11 points and four assists per game over eight competitions.
Even if fans don’t remember the tournament fondly, it was an opportunity for young stars and those without much international experience to get their feet wet. Brunson is one of those players whose participation in the World Cup could prove valuable in the long run.
The 27-year-old is one of 41 names in the player pool for Kerr and general manager Grant Hill, and his performance throughout the 2023-24 season makes a compelling case for his inclusion in the Summer Games.
Brunson is averaging career highs in points (27.6) and assists (6.4) while shooting 40.0 percent from beyond the arc.
Kerr will be spoiled for choice with so many big names signaling their desire to win Olympic gold in Paris. James Harden, Devin Booker, Stephen Curry, Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard, Donovan Mitchell and Kyrie Irving are among the backcourt options he could have at his disposal.
Still, it will be difficult to overlook Brunson when it comes time to make a final decision.
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