Devin Booker: NBA Title Tougher Than Olympic Gold

Team USA is gearing up for a big game against Brazil in the Olympic quarterfinals this Tuesday, aiming for the gold medal in basketball.

Last year, sprinter Noah Lyles stirred controversy by criticizing NBA teams for calling themselves “world champions” when they win the domestic title. He argued that since the competition isn’t global, it doesn’t make sense to call them world champions. His comments sparked a lot of backlash from NBA players who didn’t agree with him.

Devin Booker’s Reaction:

Devin Booker praised Lyles for his amazing 100-meter win but disagreed with his views on the NBA. “I still don’t agree with the comment,” he said. Booker believes that all the best basketball talent is in the NBA and that winning an NBA championship is one of the hardest things to do.

Devin Booker gave Noah Lyles his props for his incredible 100-meter win but still disagreed with his comments about the NBA

— Mirror US Sports (@MirrorUSSports)

Kevin Durant and Aaron Gordon were among those who reacted strongly to Lyles’ statement. Durant tweeted, “Somebody help this brother,” while Gordon joked about beating Lyles in a race.

Booker at The Olympics:

Booker attended the 100-meter Final at the 2024 Olympic Games and saw Lyles win gold. Despite his admiration for Lyles’ athletic prowess, he remains firm on his stance about what defines a world champion in basketball. Fans often feel torn between supporting their favorite athletes and agreeing with their opinions.

Other Team USA players also took a break from their preparations to watch Lyles compete at Stade de France. “It was crazy,” said Devin after witnessing Lyles narrowly beat Jamaica’s Kishane Thompson. “Great for America.”

Team USA’s Performance:

In terms of playing time during these FIBA-ruled matches, LeBron James and Steph Curry lead Team USA with 21.6 minutes per game each, followed closely by Booker who averages 21.1 minutes per game.

Facing Brazil:

Currently unbeaten with a 3-0 record, Team USA is set to face Brazil next, considered by many as their easiest opponent so far. Steve Kerr commented on Brazil’s strengths: “They’re very physical and great at offensive rebounding.” If they advance past Brazil, they could face Serbia or Australia next.

Despite being favorites, Coach Kerr emphasizes not underestimating Brazil: “They’ve got good shooters and play hard every play,” he noted on Sunday. “We need to be ready because they won’t back down.”