. All Won Gold, But Only One Will Be King: The USA Basketball Male Athlete Showdown

All Won Gold: Who Will Be the 2024 USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year?

The 2024 USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year award is one of the most prestigious honors in the sport, celebrating exceptional talent, leadership, and performance. This year, the field is stacked with legends and rising stars alike, all of whom have contributed to gold-medal triumphs for Team USA. Voting is now open, and fans have a tough decision ahead: Mikel, Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, Anthony “AJ” Johnson, or LeBron James?

Here’s a breakdown of each nominee’s case for the award:

Mikel: The Rising Star

Mikel, the youngest player on the list, made waves this year with his stellar play. Known for his explosive speed and fearless drives, Mikel was pivotal in Team USA’s gold-medal victory in the FIBA U21 Championship. Despite his age, he displayed remarkable poise under pressure, averaging 20 points per game and providing clutch performances that belied his years. His electrifying energy and passion have made him a fan favorite and a symbol of the next generation of basketball stars.

Why he could win:

Exceptional performance as a leader in the U21 Championship.

Represents the future of USA Basketball.

Steph Curry: The Perennial Superstar

Stephen Curry’s inclusion in this lineup is no surprise. Known globally for revolutionizing the game with his shooting prowess, Steph’s performance in 2024 has been nothing short of extraordinary. Leading Team USA in the FIBA World Cup, he averaged 27 points per game while setting tournament records for three-pointers made. His leadership on and off the court was instrumental in uniting the team and ensuring another gold-medal finish.

Why he could win:

Consistently dominant at the highest levels of competition.

A role model for sportsmanship and team cohesion.

Kevin Durant: The Veteran Leader

Kevin Durant continues to cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in basketball history. At 36, KD’s role in the Olympic Games was critical, providing stability and unmatched scoring ability. With averages of 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, Durant was the backbone of the team, delivering clutch performances when it mattered most. His calm demeanor and extensive experience have made him a cornerstone of USA Basketball’s success.

Why he could win:

A consistent performer in international competitions.

His leadership remains unparalleled.

Anthony “AJ” Johnson: The Defensive Anchor

AJ Johnson is the dark horse in this competition but arguably the most versatile player of the year. Known for his defensive prowess, AJ was the unsung hero in Team USA’s gold-medal campaign. His ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opponents’ game plans was invaluable. Offensively, he chipped in with timely buckets, but his true impact was felt in the defensive stats, leading the tournament in blocks and steals.

Why he could win:

Dominant defensive contributions in critical games.

Often overlooked but integral to the team’s success.

LeBron James: The Timeless Legend

Even at 39, LeBron James continues to defy Father Time. Returning to Team USA for one last dance, LeBron played a dual role as both player and mentor. His averages of 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists in the Olympic Games underscored his enduring brilliance. Beyond the stats, his ability to inspire teammates and galvanize the squad made him the heart and soul of the team.

Why he could win:

A living legend whose legacy in basketball is unmatched.

His narrative of a triumphant return adds weight to his candidacy.

The Tough Decision: Who Should Win?

Each of these athletes brings a unique case to the table. Whether it’s Mikel’s youthful energy, Steph’s unmatched shooting, KD’s veteran consistency, AJ’s defensive brilliance, or LeBron’s legendary status, the choice ultimately depends on what fans value most. Is it future potential, individual dominance, team leadership, or a combination of all three?

How to Vote

Fans can cast their votes online at the USA Basketball website. Voting closes on January 15, 2025, and the winner will be announced shortly thereafter

As we look back on an incredible year for USA Basketball, one thing is clear: every nominee is deserving of this honor. But only one will take home the title of 2024 USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year. Who will you choose?