The 1992 U.S. men's basketball team, or the Dream Team as they are more popularly known, is considered by many as the greatest basketball team ever assembled. It was composed of the 12 biggest names in the NBA at that time, and the star power on that squad is unmatched.
Among the twelve, three names stood out as the most popular players on the team - Michael Jordan , Magic Johnson , and Larry Bird .
Looking back, former Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski , who was one of Chuck Daly's assistants on the Dream Team, talked about having MJ, Magic, and Bird on that iconic 1992 Olympic team in his recent appearance on the Dan Patrick Show.
"They weren't at the same age at that time," said Coach K. "Jordan was in his prime, although he's always in his prime. Larry had a lot of back problems then and Magic had been out for a year. And not that they were at his level at that time, but if they were in their prime, all three of them, I'd take those three guys to start any team."
Three of the Top 6 or 7 players of all-time
Many consider Jordan the GOAT of basketball. In 1991, however, he was a 29-year-old freak athlete who had just won his first NBA title during the NBA's 1990-91 season. Mike was undoubtedly the best player in the association in 1991, and there was no doubt he was the main star of the Dream Team.
But while Mike was on top of his game, Bird and Magic were on their way out. Larry Legend was already 35 years old and playing on fumes. After winning gold, the Celtics legend announced his retirement. Meanwhile, Magic was only 32, but he was out of the NBA for a season after his HIV diagnosis. Like his long time rival, he was already past his prime during their Dream Team stint.
"You're talking about three of at least the Top 6 or 7 in the history of the game," added Krzyzewski. "Magic is probably the best point guard ever. Jordan may be the best player ever although Kobe's right there and LeBron. And Larry was just unique. You talk about being a competitor, there aren't as many players like that anymore."
Related: "USA Basketball better get some NBA stars that know how to play a role" - Devin Booker's tweet accepting Kyle Kuzma's challenge resurfaces
Magic convinced Bird and MJ
Interestingly, Magic was the most determined of the three to participate in the Olympics. Johnson even persuaded both Bird and Jordan to play for the Dream Team.
First, Magic called Bird and told his longtime rival that it was the chance for their kids to see them together on one team after being rivals throughout their NBA careers. He told the Celtics legend that he could coast along and just play 10 minutes per game.
After Bird said yes, Johnson proceeded to contact MJ. Magic explained to Mike that playing with him and Bird was on his bucket list before his career was over. After plenty of convincing, Jordan said yes. But for His Airness, it wasn't for the nostalgia. He wanted to show Magic and Bird that there was a new sheriff in town.
Related: "In all seriousness…I think we have to salute that" - Rich Paul breaks down why LeBron James is the GOAT over Michael Jordan
Most Popular
Comments / 0