The gold medal was firmly secured for USA Basketball, marking a triumphant mission accomplished at the 2024 Paris Games. After his team’s stunning victory against France in the gold medal game on August 10, USA men’s basketball coach Steve Kerr stood at the podium for what would be his final press conference, reflecting on the exhilarating journey that brought his players to this pinnacle.
Before departing the press conference stage in the heart of Paris, Kerr took a moment to share an unexpected message aimed at media outlets worldwide, highlighting the importance of recognizing contributions beyond just the marquee names.
“Devin Booker is an incredible basketball player. Nobody asked about him. He was our unsung MVP. I just wanted to say that,” Kerr passionately stated, marking a poignant acknowledgment of Booker’s crucial role during the tournament.
The honor of being called the “unsung MVP” resonated deeply with Booker, underscoring the significance of teamwork and sacrifice in achieving such high-level success.
“It meant everything. No one really asked him,” Booker recently disclosed to Andscape, reflecting on Kerr’s commendation. “That was probably something that was weighing on his heart throughout the whole process. I said it a year prior what I wanted to do for that team and what we want to do for the country.”
“It was way bigger than all of us. To pull through was something we will talk about for the rest of our lives,” emphasized Booker, highlighting the emotional significance of their gold medal achievement.
The roster of USA Basketball revolved around the star-studded line-up featuring NBA legends like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant. However, amidst the media and fan discussions regarding the limited playing time for standout players like Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton, the versatile contributions of sharpshooting guard Devin Booker—often overshadowed—shone brightly throughout the tournament.
Booker excelled in his role, finishing fourth in scoring for the U.S. with an average of 11.7 points, 3.3 assists, and 2.2 3-pointers made per game. His presence was invaluable as he started all six Olympic matches and boasted the best plus/minus rating (plus-130) for the U.S. Kerr noted that Booker managed to balance his defensive focus while adapting to a role that didn’t always put him in the spotlight offensively.
“I was just understanding what was at stake,” Booker said, explaining his deep connection to the honor of representing his country. “I take pride in being from this country. I take pride in the game of basketball. Even though it wasn’t invented in America, we have dominated for a long time. Obviously, the world is super-talented and the game is growing, but it was another message to let them know who we are.”
Booker reflected on the invaluable lessons of preparation gleaned from playing alongside such a distinguished roster, emphasizing the friendships he forged and the insights he gained into professional excellence both on and off the court.
“It’s cool to see that everyone has their own s— that they have going on,” Booker shared, recognizing the shared challenges among his teammates. “What I’ve learned in my 10 [NBA] years going about it is you pick up what you can work for you. But the level of detail, attention to detail, the intensity, it’s all consistent throughout everybody.”
As for his Suns teammate Kevin Durant, Booker highlighted that their relationship has grown significantly, particularly during their time in the NBA together. The two reside just five minutes apart in the Phoenix area and maintain a close friendship, regularly spending time together both at home and during road games. Recently, Booker has stepped up as the leader of the Suns, especially in Durant’s absence due to injury.
A blazing Durant was averaging a Suns-best 27.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists before an unfortunate left calf strain sidelined him since November 8. With other starters like Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic also facing their own injury challenges, the Suns have struggled, recording a disappointing 1-5 record without their star forward, including four consecutive losses.
Next up for Booker and the Suns in the absence of Durant are the New York Knicks, set to face off on Wednesday night (ESPN, 10 p.m. ET). Over the last six games, Booker has averaged an impressive 24.1 points on 43.2% shooting from the field, while also hitting 16 of 43 attempts from beyond the arc. Suns guard Tyus Jones acknowledged the significant pressure placed on Booker’s shoulders as he navigates his elevated offensive responsibility due to the team’s injuries.
“We’re asking Book to do a lot,” Jones expressed after a 109-99 defeat to the visiting Orlando Magic on Monday evening. “It’s a lot of pressure on him. It’s a lot of focus on him. They’re physical with him, they hold and grab him; all night they’re throwing two or three bodies at him. So, it’s a lot on his plate, and we just got to continue to find ways to get him open the times that we can, and also continue to help him out with other guys making shots and making plays.”
Booker now proudly holds two Olympic gold medals, four NBA All-Star appearances, and one NBA Finals berth. However, his pursuit of an NBA championship remains unfulfilled, with the Phoenix Suns—an expansion team since 1968—still seeking their first title.
After experiencing the emotions of winning a gold medal, Booker’s desire for the prestigious Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy has only intensified.
“Most of the guys that were there, they have done it,” Booker remarked regarding his Olympic teammates who have already tasted NBA championship glory. “They have been champs. That is the standard for them. Anything less than that, they don’t want nothing to do with it. It’s contagious …
“It’s all I want. It’s all I want,” Booker stated resolutely, affirming his singular focus on NBA championship aspirations.
Marc J. Spears is the senior NBA writer for Andscape. He used to be able to dunk on you, but he hasn’t been able to in years and his knees still hurt.
How has Devin Booker’s role within the Team USA lineup influenced his leadership approach with the Phoenix Suns, especially in light of Kevin Durant’s injury?
**Interview with Devin Booker on His Olympic Experience and Current NBA Challenges**
**Interviewer:** Devin, congratulations on the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Games! How does it feel to be recognized as the “unsung MVP” by Coach Steve Kerr?
**Devin Booker:** Thank you! Being called the “unsung MVP” meant everything to me. It shows that the hard work and sacrifices we all made didn’t go unnoticed. I think it highlights how significant teamwork is in achieving our goals as a unit.
**Interviewer:** You spoke about the emotional significance of the victory. Can you elaborate on how that experience will impact you going forward?
**Devin Booker:** Absolutely. It was a surreal experience, something I believe we’ll remember for the rest of our lives. I take immense pride in representing my country; it’s bigger than individual accolades. The memories we created together made this journey unforgettable.
**Interviewer:** Your contributions on the court, even while playing alongside legends like LeBron James and Kevin Durant, were crucial. Was it difficult to adapt to a role that wasn’t always in the spotlight?
**Devin Booker:** Not at all. I embraced my role fully. I understood what was at stake and the importance of being defensively sound while also contributing offensively when needed. It’s about putting the team first, and everyone has a significant part to play.
**Interviewer:** Shifting focus to your current NBA season with the Suns, how has your relationship with Kevin Durant developed, especially with him sidelined due to injury?
**Devin Booker:** Kev and I have built a pretty strong relationship over the years. Living so close to each other and spending time together has brought us even closer. In his absence, I’ve tried to step up as a leader and keep the team focused and motivated.
**Interviewer:** The Suns have faced challenges, particularly without KD. How do you plan to navigate this stretch and help the team bounce back?
**Devin Booker:** We’re definitely facing tough times, but every game is an opportunity to learn and grow. I have to elevate my game and help my teammates find their rhythm. The focus is on adapting and giving our best until everyone is back healthy.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead to the game against the Knicks, what’s on your mind as you prepare?
**Devin Booker:** Just coming in with the right mindset. We need to play as a cohesive unit, stick to our game plan, and have each other’s backs. It’s about showing resilience and proving to ourselves that we can overcome adversity together.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your time, Devin. Best of luck against the Knicks!
**Devin Booker:** Thank you! I appreciate it.
