Paris 2024 Olympics: Breaking Down the Men's Basketball Favorites and Contenders

Team USA: The Overwhelming Favorite

Team USA enters the 2024 Olympics as the clear-cut favorite, boasting a star-studded roster that includes NBA MVP Nikola Jokic. With his exceptional passing skills and dominance in the paint, Jokic is widely considered the best basketball player in the world. Team USA will also feature Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a rising star in the NBA.

Canada: A Rising Star

Canada has emerged as a serious contender in recent years, with a talented young core led by Gilgeous-Alexander. The team also boasts a strong supporting cast of players with NBA experience. Canada will be looking to make a deep run in the Olympics and challenge Team USA for the gold medal.

France: The Home Team Advantage

France will have the home-court advantage in Paris and possess a formidable lineup that includes Victor Wembanyama, a 7'3" phenom who is regarded as one of the best prospects in basketball. With Wembanyama's size and athleticism, France will be a threat to any team in the tournament.

Other Contenders and Upset Candidates

Germany, Spain, and Argentina are also considered contenders for a podium finish. Germany has a young and promising team led by Franz Wagner and Dennis Schröder. Spain has a long history of success in international basketball and will be a tough opponent for any team. Argentina, led by Facundo Campazzo, is always a threat to pull off an upset.

Other teams to watch out for include Australia, Lithuania, and Slovenia. Australia has a strong NBA presence, while Lithuania and Slovenia have produced some of the best players in recent years. Any of these teams could emerge as a surprise contender in Paris.