Photo: USA Basketball/X screenshot

As Team USA gears up for this year’s FIBA World Cup, head coach Steve Kerr delivered an inspiring speech to the 12-man roster, emphasizing the significance of the experiences they will gain during the tournament.

Addressing the players, Kerr highlighted the unique opportunity they have to represent their country on the international stage. “The idea is we are here to give you the very best possible experience that we can, and with the knowledge that yes, you’re going to play in the NBA for years,” Kerr expressed.

“But it’s the experiences that matter the most—can you win? Can you bond with your teammates? Can you feel those moments in the locker room where it’s like ‘Hell yeah, nothing else matters.’ That’s what this is. There’s a freedom to that. You just play, you just compete.”

With the 12-man roster finalized without any tryouts, Kerr emphasized the importance of building camaraderie and unity among the players. “We’re going to give you everything we have as a staff, and you guys are going to give us everything that you have, and it’ll be an amazing experience,” Kerr added.

Team USA will compete in Group C during the World Cup, alongside Greece, Jordan, and New Zealand.