Stars who have played for Warriors and Team USA: Chris Mullin
Mully was way more than just a member of the lovable Run TMC group: he’s a two-time Olympic gold medalist!
As Stephen Curry makes his long overdue first appearance as a player on Team USA basketball in the 2024 Olympics in Paris, let’s take a look back at other players who played on the Olympic stage after spending time in Golden State.
Guys like Chris Mullin!
Mullin’s name is synonymous with Golden State Warriors greatness. As a key member of the Warriors and a part of the iconic “Run TMC” trio, Mullin’s sharpshooting and basketball IQ made him a standout in the NBA. However, his excellence wasn’t confined to the professional ranks; Mullin also left an indelible mark on international basketball through his involvement with the U.S. Men’s National Team, including the legendary Dream Team.
Mullin’s Olympic journey began in 1984, while he was still honing his skills at St. John’s University. Selected as part of the amateur squad that competed in Seoul, Mullin contributed to Team USA’s gold medal run under the guidance of coach Bob Knight. Averaging 11.6 points per game, his performance in 1984 foreshadowed the remarkable career he would build with the Warriors, where his shooting and leadership would become cornerstones.
The 1992 Barcelona Olympics are often regarded as the pinnacle of basketball excellence, thanks to the assembly of the original “Dream Team.” Mullin was a vital part of this historic squad, alongside legends like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird. Known for his deadly accuracy and unselfish play, Mullin averaged 12.9 points per game, helping Team USA dominate the competition en route to a gold medal.
Mullin’s connection to the Warriors during this period was emblematic of his role on the Dream Team. Just as he had been a steadying presence and a reliable scorer in Golden State, he provided crucial outside shooting and veteran savvy to a roster brimming with talent. His ability to blend seamlessly with superstars and contribute without needing the spotlight highlighted the qualities that made him an all-time great.
Mully’s Olympic success is a testament to his skill and versatility, both of which were honed during his tenure with the Warriors. His participation in two gold medal campaigns not only brought him individual accolades but also elevated his profile within the global basketball community. For Warriors fans, Mullin’s Olympic achievements were a source of pride, reflecting the caliber of players who have donned the blue and gold.
Moreover, Mullin’s time with Team USA offered a glimpse of his adaptability and team-first mentality—traits that defined his career in the NBA and endeared him to the Golden State faithful. Whether on the hardwood of the Oakland Coliseum Arena or the courts of Barcelona, Mullin’s approach to the game was consistent: play hard, play smart, and always put the team above individual glory.
Let’s all crack a beer for Mully!