The U.S. team’s path to gold in men’s basketball was marked by many iconic moments that will shape Olympic history for decades to come.

Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns broke the all-time scoring record. Steph Curry of the Golden State Warriors made several crucial three-pointers against Serbia and France. LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers proved to be the epitome of consistency and was deservedly named the Most Valuable Player of the Olympics.

However, in order for these players to shine, one player fell by the wayside, thus keeping a promise he made over a year ago.

On September 12, 2023, Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma called for an all-around player to join the U.S. team at the Olympics.

“USA Basketball better get some NBA players who know how to play a role,” Kuzma said. “Anyone can be good with the ball in their hands, but can you also be good at defending and getting to the corner for a few possessions?”

Shortly thereafter, Devin Booker reposted Kuzma’s comment and simply said, “I will do it.”

And he kept that promise.

Booker’s goal wasn’t to be the most explosive player ever at the Olympics. He wanted to be the all-around player the team needed, and head coach Steve Kerr appreciated that.

“Devin Booker is an incredible basketball player,” Kerr said, according to Ben Golliver of the Washington Post. “Nobody asked about him. He was our secret MVP. I just wanted to say that.”

Kerr is not wrong. At the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, Booker averaged 11.7 points, 2.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists, the third most on the team. While these are not the most spectacular statistics, Booker spent more time on the court than most of the US team.

Booker averaged 22 minutes per game, beating NBA stars like Anthony Davis of the Lakers, Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers and Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics.

Still, Booker had his moments of excellence. In the knockout game against Brazil, Booker was the team’s top scorer with 18 points and 5 of 7 three-point shots. He also contributed three rebounds and three assists.

Booker was also an important player in the last game against France. He tied with Durant for the second most points scored in the game (15), tied with James for the second most rebounds (6) and also contributed three assists.

While players like James, Curry and Durant grabbed media attention with their impressive performances and jaw-dropping moments, Booker was the glue that held the team together. Had he not kept his promise, the USA may not have emerged victorious this year.

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