Ranking The 20 Best Basketball Players At The 2024 Olympic Games

The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris delivered an unforgettable basketball tournament, where Team USA emerged victorious, securing their fifth consecutive gold medal with a 98-87 win over France. In what became his final Olympic appearance, LeBron James led the charge and was named MVP of the tournament, showcasing his brilliance with clutch performances throughout, especially in the semi-final against Serbia. Stephen Curry was the standout in the final, dropping 24 points and draining clutch three-pointers to fend off a determined French squad led by Victor Wembanyama .

This Olympics wasn’t just about the medalists. It was a showcase of the best basketball talent from around the world, with several players stepping up when it mattered most. Now, as we reflect on the Paris Games, it's time to rank the 20 best players based on their performance during the tournament. These players proved they are at the pinnacle of the sport, delivering when it counted most on the biggest stage.

1. Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokic continued his reign as one of the world’s best basketball players at the 2024 Olympic Games, leading Serbia to a bronze medal with his trademark versatility and leadership. Fresh off winning his third NBA MVP award earlier this year, Jokic brought his elite form to Paris, dominating the competition on both ends of the floor. He averaged 18.8 points, 10.7 rebounds, 8.7 assists, and 2 steals per game, nearly posting a triple-double in multiple games. His ability to control the game with his vision, scoring, and defensive prowess was unmatched throughout the tournament.

In the semi-final clash against the United States, Jokic showcased why he’s considered one of the best players on the planet. Despite Serbia falling short in a close game, Jokic contributed 17 points, 11 assists, and 5 rebounds, constantly putting pressure on the American defense with his playmaking and scoring. Even in defeat, his performance was a testament to his ability to shine against top-tier competition, reinforcing his status as a global superstar.

Jokic saved one of his best performances for the bronze medal game against Germany, where he once again led Serbia to victory. His 19-point, 11 rebounds, 12 assists triple-double performance in that game, along with his leadership on and off the court, was crucial in securing Serbia's 93-83 win. This medal added to Serbia's proud basketball tradition and further cemented Jokic's legacy as one of the greatest players of his generation.

2. Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo once again proved why he’s one of the most dominant forces in basketball at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Leading Greece to a strong showing in the tournament, Giannis was a powerhouse on both ends of the floor. He averaged an impressive 25.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, showcasing his ability to score at will and impact the game in multiple facets.

Despite Greece not making it to the medal rounds, Giannis' performances were nothing short of spectacular. His ability to drive to the basket, finish through contact, and dominate in transition made him one of the most unstoppable players in the tournament. Giannis also displayed his usual defensive prowess, using his length and athleticism to disrupt opponents and generate fast-break opportunities for his team.

Off the court, Giannis continued to embody the leadership qualities that have made him a global superstar. Whether it was rallying his teammates or pushing them to be better, his influence was felt throughout the Greek roster. After a season where he once again put up MVP-caliber numbers in the NBA, Giannis brought that same intensity and skill to the international stage, further solidifying his place as one of the best players in the world.

3. LeBron James

At 39 years old, LeBron James continues to defy Father Time, putting on a masterclass at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Leading Team USA to their fifth consecutive gold medal, LeBron was named the tournament's MVP, adding yet another accolade to his legendary career. Despite his age, LeBron showed no signs of slowing down, averaging 14.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game, orchestrating the offense with his trademark vision and basketball IQ.

Throughout the tournament, LeBron’s leadership was as crucial as his on-court performance. He consistently made the right plays, whether it was finding the open man, hitting timely shots, or locking down on defense when his team needed it most. His ability to control the pace of the game, especially in high-pressure moments, was a key factor in Team USA’s success, particularly in their close semi-final win over Serbia.

LeBron’s MVP performance in Paris is a testament to his enduring greatness. Even as he approaches the end of his career, he remains one of the most impactful players on the planet, capable of taking over games and leading his team to victory on the biggest stages. His performance at the Olympics only adds to his already towering legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

4. Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry played a pivotal role in leading Team USA to yet another gold medal at the 2024 Olympic Games. Over the course of the tournament, Curry averaged 14.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, consistently providing his team with the offensive firepower and leadership they needed.

Curry’s standout performances were critical in the knockout rounds. He dropped an incredible 36 points in the semifinal against Serbia, helping Team USA pull off a comeback victory. His shooting was on full display, as he hit several clutch three-pointers to keep the Americans in the game. Then, in the gold medal game against France, Curry contributed 24 points, including timely shots that helped secure the 98-87 win for the U.S.

While his scoring numbers weren’t as high as in his NBA games, Curry’s ability to step up in crucial moments and his impact on the court were undeniable. His performance in Paris reinforced his status as one of the best and most clutch players in the world, continuing to build on his already legendary career.

5. Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant didn’t need to be the primary scorer for Team USA at the 2024 Olympics, but he still made his presence felt in big moments. Averaging 13.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, Durant was a consistent contributor throughout the tournament.

In the gold medal game against France, Durant chipped in with 15 points, playing his role perfectly within a team filled with star power. While he wasn't the leading scorer, his ability to score efficiently and step up in key moments was crucial. His versatility allowed Team USA to spread the floor and keep defenses on their toes, knowing they couldn't leave Durant open for a second.

One of Durant’s quieter games came in the semifinal against Serbia, where he managed just 9 points. However, his impact wasn't limited to scoring—his defensive presence and ability to draw attention from the defense opened up opportunities for his teammates. Despite the lower scoring output, Durant's all-around game was still a valuable asset in helping Team USA secure the win and advance to the final.

6. Bogdan Bogdanovic

Bogdan Bogdanovic played a crucial role for Serbia during the 2024 Olympic Games, helping his team secure a bronze medal with his steady play and leadership. As his overall tournament averages—18.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game—showed a seasoned scorer and leader, Bogdanovic really came up big in key moments, showcasing his clutch ability when it mattered most.

His standout performances came in the crucial games against top opponents. Bogdanovic scored 16 points in the bronze medal game against Germany, leading Serbia to a 93-83 victory, and he poured in 20 points in the closely contested semifinal against Team USA. Despite Serbia's loss to the Americans, Bogdanovic’s performance kept his team competitive and highlighted his value as a dependable scorer and playmaker in critical situations.

Bogdanovic's contributions were vital to Serbia's success, and while his stats might not tell the whole story, his impact on the court was undeniable, especially in those high-pressure games.

7. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had an impressive showing at the 2024 Olympic Games, standing out as one of the tournament’s top performers. Averaging 21.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, Shai was the driving force behind Canada’s deep run in the competition.

Despite his stellar play, Canada fell short in the quarterfinals against France, losing 82-73 in a hard-fought battle. Shai did everything he could to keep his team in the game, but France's defense, led by Victor Wembanyama, proved too strong. Gilgeous-Alexander's ability to create his own shot and facilitate for his teammates was on full display throughout the tournament, but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to push Canada past the medal contenders.

Even though Canada didn’t make it to the podium, Shai’s performance in Paris solidified his reputation as one of the best guards in the world, especially in international play. His leadership and skill on the court made him a standout, and he showed that he's capable of competing at the highest levels.

8. Franz Wagner

Franz Wagner was a standout for Germany during the 2024 Olympic Games, playing a key role in their impressive run to the semifinals. He averaged 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and all-around game.

Wagner’s best moments came in the earlier rounds, where his scoring ability and defensive presence were crucial for Germany. However, despite his strong performances, Germany fell short in the semifinals against France, losing 73-69 in a tight contest. Wagner put up a fight with his scoring and rebounding, but it wasn’t enough to push Germany into the final. In the bronze medal game, Germany was defeated by Serbia, 93-83, but Wagner’s contributions throughout the tournament solidified his status as one of the top young players in international basketball.

Franz's performance in Paris proved that he is not just a rising star in the NBA but also a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.

9. Victor Wembanyama

Victor Wembanyama made his Olympic debut at the 2024 Games in Paris, and he certainly lived up to the hype. Averaging 15.8 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, the 20-year-old phenom was a dominant force for France throughout the tournament.

Wembanyama had some standout performances, including his 19-point, 9-rebound effort in France's opening win against Brazil. However, he also showed his versatility and defensive prowess, consistently contributing on both ends of the floor. Despite his efforts, France faced tough challenges in the knockout stages. In the semifinals against Germany, Wembanyama was held to 11 points on 23.5% shooting as France narrowly edged out a 73-69 victory.

In the gold medal game against Team USA, Wembanyama bounced back, leading France with 26 points and 7 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Americans, as France fell 98-87. His performance in the final, however, solidified his reputation as one of the brightest young stars in basketball, capable of competing against the best on the world stage.

10. Dennis Schroder

Dennis Schroder played a pivotal role for Germany during the 2024 Olympic Games, leading his team to a solid fourth-place finish. Averaging 14.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game, Schroder was the floor general for the German squad, orchestrating the offense and making key plays throughout the tournament.

Schroder’s leadership was on full display in the group stages, where he consistently set up his teammates and controlled the tempo of the game. His best performance came against Greece, where he dished out 9 assists and scored 18 points, leading Germany to a crucial victory that secured their spot in the knockout rounds.

In the semifinals against France, Schroder continued to be the engine of Germany's offense, contributing 17 points and 7 assists. However, despite his efforts, Germany narrowly lost, pushing them into the bronze medal game against Serbia. Unfortunately, Germany fell short again, but Schroder’s playmaking and scoring throughout the tournament solidified his role as one of the top point guards in international play.

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11. Joel Embiid

Joel Embiid made headlines even before the 2024 Olympic Games began due to his unique eligibility situation. Born in Cameroon, Embiid also holds French and U.S. citizenship, making him eligible to play for any of the three nations. After much speculation and consideration, Embiid ultimately chose to represent the United States, a decision that added another layer of intrigue to Team USA’s already star-studded roster.

Throughout the tournament, Embiid was a solid contributor for the U.S., averaging 9.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. While these numbers may seem modest compared to his usual NBA dominance, Embiid’s impact was felt most in the semifinals against Serbia. In that crucial game, he stepped up big with 19 points, leading the charge in a tough matchup that tested Team USA’s resolve.

Embiid's choice to play for the U.S. over France or Cameroon sparked discussions about national allegiance and the globalization of basketball. His decision was seen as a strategic move, aligning himself with a team that offered the best chance for gold, while also deepening the talent pool of a U.S. squad that was already considered the favorite.

12. RJ Barrett

RJ Barrett had a standout performance at the 2024 Olympic Games, leading Canada with averages of 20.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. His scoring ability and versatility were on full display throughout the tournament, solidifying his reputation as a rising star on the international stage.

As Barrett looks to transition from his Olympic success back to the NBA, there’s significant buzz about his potential to become the leading scorer for the Toronto Raptors. With the departure of key players and the team entering a new phase of rebuilding, Barrett is in a prime position to take on a larger offensive role. His performance in Paris showcased his ability to carry a heavy scoring load, and the Raptors may look to him to replicate that production in the upcoming NBA season.

Barrett’s strong showing at the Olympics could very well be a precursor to a breakout season with Toronto. If he can maintain the level of play he demonstrated in Paris, there’s a real possibility that Barrett could emerge as the Raptors’ top scorer and a cornerstone of the franchise moving forward.

13. Josh Giddey

Josh Giddey had an outstanding performance at the 2024 Olympic Games, proving himself as one of the most versatile players in the tournament. He averaged 17.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Giddey’s all-around performance was a major factor in Australia’s strong showing, although they ultimately fell short in the quarterfinals against Serbia in a heartbreaking overtime loss.

Giddey's standout moment came in that very quarterfinal, where he poured in 25 points, along with 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Despite his efforts, Australia was unable to hold off Serbia, and the loss was a bitter pill for the young star, who was visibly emotional after the game. This game marked the end of an impressive Olympic run, but it also highlighted Giddey's potential as a leader for the Australian national team in future tournaments.

Looking ahead to his NBA career, Giddey will be taking his talents to the Chicago Bulls after being traded from the Oklahoma City Thunder earlier in the summer. This fresh start in Chicago is expected to give him a larger role as the team’s primary ball-handler, which could be a perfect fit given his performance in Paris. If he continues to develop his game, Giddey could very well become one of the top point guards in the league, using his Olympic experience as a springboard for greater success.

14. Anthony Edwards

Anthony Edwards played a supportive role for Team USA during the 2024 Olympic Games, contributing solidly in his minutes on the court. He averaged 12.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, showcasing his scoring ability even when he wasn’t the primary option. Edwards' athleticism and scoring punch were valuable assets off the bench, providing the team with a spark when needed.

Despite not being the focal point of the offense, Edwards had moments where he flashed his potential, particularly with his aggressive drives to the basket and his ability to create his own shot. However, his overall impact was somewhat limited compared to his role in the NBA, as he had to adjust to a team filled with superstar talent, each with established roles.

Edwards' Olympic experience was likely a valuable learning opportunity, as he continues to develop into a more well-rounded player. Heading back to the Minnesota Timberwolves, Edwards will be expected to take on a larger leadership role, and his time with Team USA may help him bring a new level of maturity and focus to the upcoming NBA season.

15. Guerschon Yabusele

Guerschon Yabusele was a key contributor for France during the 2024 Olympic Games, bringing energy and scoring punch to the team. Averaging 14.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game, Yabusele was a consistent offensive presence for Les Bleus, playing a crucial role in their journey to the gold medal game.

Yabusele’s ability to score in various ways—whether by using his strength in the post or stepping out to hit jumpers—made him a versatile threat on the floor. His physicality also helped him to contribute defensively and on the boards, though his main impact came on the offensive end.

Throughout the tournament, Yabusele provided crucial support to France's star players like Victor Wembanyama, helping the team maintain its high level of play. In the final against Team USA, Yabusele put up a strong effort, but France ultimately fell short of the gold. Nonetheless, Yabusele's performances in Paris have solidified his reputation as a reliable and impactful player on the international stage and might earn him another shot in the NBA.

16. Devin Booker

Devin Booker brought his sharpshooting and offensive versatility to Team USA during the 2024 Olympic Games, playing a key role in their gold medal run. Averaging 11.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, Booker was a reliable contributor on both ends of the floor.

Booker’s ability to score from all three levels made him a crucial piece of Team USA’s offense. Whether he was knocking down three-pointers, creating shots off the dribble, or facilitating for his teammates, Booker’s offensive game was on full display. His efficiency and scoring threat kept defenses honest, allowing other stars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry to operate more freely.

Although Booker wasn’t the primary scoring option, his contributions were invaluable in maintaining the balance and depth of Team USA’s roster. His experience and composure, honed through years of NBA playoff battles, translated well to the international stage, where he proved to be a steady hand in critical moments.

17. Moritz Wagner

Moritz Wagner was an important role player for Germany during the 2024 Olympic Games, contributing to his team's strong showing with solid all-around performances. He averaged 9.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, providing a consistent presence in the frontcourt.

Wagner's versatility as a big man who can stretch the floor with his shooting and handle the ball made him a valuable asset for Germany. His ability to space the floor and make plays helped open up the offense for his teammates, particularly during key moments in the tournament. Wagner also played with his usual high energy, contributing defensively and on the boards, even if his numbers didn't always leap off the stat sheet.

Throughout the tournament, Wagner’s contributions were crucial in Germany's deep run, although they ultimately fell short of a medal. His performance in Paris further solidified his role as a reliable and versatile player for both club and country.

18. Patty Mills

Patty Mills delivered a memorable performance at the 2024 Olympic Games, where he averaged 16.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game. This tournament was particularly significant for Mills, as it marked his likely final appearance in the green and gold of Australia.

Mills played with the intensity and passion that has defined his international career, culminating in a dramatic quarterfinal game against Serbia. In what was possibly his last game with the Boomers, Mills scored 26 points, including a clutch layup that sent the game to overtime. Although Australia ultimately fell short in a heartbreaking loss, Mills’ effort was a fitting tribute to his storied Olympic career.

Mills has been a cornerstone of Australian basketball for years, leading the Boomers to historic achievements, including their first Olympic medal in 2020. As he reflected on his journey, Mills spoke about the pride and joy he felt representing Australia on the international stage. His legacy is secure, and his final Olympic run in Paris will be remembered as a testament to his commitment and leadership.

19. José Alvarado

José Alvarado was one of the standout performers for Puerto Rico at the 2024 Olympic Games, leading his team with averages of 15.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. His tenacity on both ends of the court made him a key player for Puerto Rico, and his defensive prowess, in particular, stood out as he consistently pressured opponents and created turnovers.

Alvarado's ability to disrupt opposing offenses with his quick hands and relentless energy earned him recognition as one of the best defenders in the tournament. On the offensive end, he was equally effective, using his speed and court vision to drive the lane, find open teammates, and knock down shots when his team needed them most.

Despite Puerto Rico not advancing to the later stages of the tournament, Alvarado's performances were a bright spot, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level. His play in Paris likely increased his stock even further, both in international circles and within the NBA, where he already has a reputation as a tough, gritty player.

20. Santi Aldama

Santi Aldama had an outstanding performance at the 2024 Olympic Games, establishing himself as one of Spain's key players. He averaged 17.3 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, leading Spain with his versatile skill set and strong presence on the court.

Aldama's ability to score efficiently, combined with his rebounding and defensive work, made him a crucial contributor for Spain throughout the tournament. Whether he was knocking down shots from the perimeter, driving to the basket, or battling in the paint for rebounds, Aldama showcased a well-rounded game that made him a matchup problem for opponents.

His performances were particularly vital in close games, where his ability to step up in critical moments helped keep Spain competitive against top-tier teams. Aldama’s play in Paris not only highlighted his growth as a player but also hinted at a bright future for him in both international and NBA play. As he continues to develop, Aldama is expected to be a central figure for Spain in future competitions.

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