When the formation of the star-studded Team USA was just an idea this year, Kyle Kuzma wondered if any superstar would be willing to take on a smaller role for the good of the team. “I will do it.” Devin Booker responded. Since Booker was the Suns’ first choice throughout his career, many believed he would not be able to keep his promise. However, he surprised everyone by fully embracing his new role on Team USA and helping them win Olympic gold. Impressed by Booker’s sacrifice, sharpshooter Damian Lillard applauded the young shooting guard.

In a recent interview, Dame Book had high praise for her. “When you look at a guy who is a superstar in the league, who is humble enough and has a winning mentality, he is a star among the stars.” He then spoke about the importance of putting team success above personal accolades on Team USA. “Not everyone can be a star. Not everyone can have the ball. Not everyone can score points. Someone has to be willing to play a role and just contribute to the ultimate goal.”

After playing for Team USA at the last Olympics, Lillard immediately understood Booker’s influence. “When I watched the games, it was very obvious to me that he approached it with that mindset. I’m going to catch the guys, I’m going to go for the ball, I’m going to make free throws, I’m going to fight for the team. I think it takes a special kind of person to take on that role when there are so many outside voices and people talking about every little thing, and he definitely did that.” Booker would have made that promise a year ago and if he had let them down, he would definitely have faced criticism from fans. And Lillard has seen his fans turn against him, as he was a victim of that betrayal when he demanded a trade from the Portland Trail Blazers because of their lack of direction after being loyal to the franchise and the city for 11 years. So he wouldn’t have wanted the same thing to happen to Booker after the Paris trip.

Devin Booker’s risk paid off

Since Devin Booker made a huge sacrifice, his career could have gone either way. After all, he is used to being the first choice and many of his fans would not like to see him in a secondary role. But that didn’t matter much because Booker managed to make a big impression in Paris despite not having the ball in his hands often. Alongside legends like LeBron, Steph and KD, Booker found his place in the team and finished the tournament with an average of 11.7 points. In addition, he was highly efficient in every game, hitting 56.5% of his three-point shots.

What impressed everyone most, however, was his willingness to defend and do the dirty work while the experienced stars took over. Although Booker didn’t get much media attention during the tournament, head coach Steve Kerr understood what he brought to the team. “He was our secret MVP. I just wanted to say that.” More importantly, his Olympic campaign proved that Booker is a team player, and that could benefit him in the NBA, as his teammates Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal would feel more comfortable sharing the court with him. Do you agree?

Before you go, don’t forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger