NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has expressed doubts about Team USA’s chances of winning Olympic gold in the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
In a recent interview with Dirk Schlickmann of Sport Bild, O’Neal outlined his concerns regarding the evolving landscape of international basketball.
O’Neal reflected on the recent World Cup, stating that he was not surprised by Germany’s victory over the USA in semi-finals on their way to gold.
He noted that while the USA was once light-years ahead of other countries in basketball, that advantage has diminished over the years. “Europe has caught up and is now just a step behind,” he said, predicting that they will soon surpass the USA.
The Hall of Famer believes the USA’s dominance will wane due to the aging of its star players. He remarked that by 2028, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry are likely to be retired. O’Neal added that Joel Embiid may also not be part of the roster, leaving Team USA without its best players.
He emphasized the quality of European teams, mentioning the strength of Croatia, Serbia, and Germany. “You could see Germany winning gold in 2028,” he suggested.
When asked about individual players, O’Neal praised Dennis Schroder for his unique playing style. He described Schroder as unorthodox and unpredictable, adding that he brings something different to the point guard position. O’Neal also expressed admiration for the Wagner brothers, Franz and Moritz, noting their impressive skills and teamwork.
The former Lakers center believes the bond between the Wagner brothers is essential for their success. “They play incredibly well together, and I hope they never get separated,” he stated.
O’Neal’s analysis aligns with the recent performance of Team USA in the 2024 Men’s Olympic Basketball Tournament held in Paris. The USA emerged victorious, winning their fifth consecutive gold medal, but his comments indicate a belief that sustaining this success will be challenging in the coming years.
The tournament featured a highly competitive atmosphere, with 12 teams participating and the USA ultimately defeating France in the final. LeBron James was named the tournament MVP, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in the sport’s history.
