Stars who have played for Warriors and Team USA: Andre Iguodala
Iguodala made an impact in the 2012 London games before joining the Dubs and helping form a dynasty.
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 during a career where they ended up in Golden State.
Guys like Andre Iguodala!
Iguodala’s Olympic journey with Team USA is a testament to his versatility and basketball IQ, qualities that have made him a beloved figure in Warriors lore.
The 2012 Olympics in London marked his sole appearance on the Olympic stage, where he contributed to Team USA’s gold medal triumph with his signature defensive prowess and unselfish play. Iguodala’s ability to adapt and thrive among superstars foreshadowed his pivotal role in Golden State’s rise to prominence.
“The only reason I made the Olympic team in 2012 is because Kobe Bryant was like, ‘This is the best defender in the league. And I never made the All-Defensive First Team,” Iguodala said on Gil’s Arena.
It was only a year later that Iguodala shifted the balance of power in the Western Conference by leaving the Denver Nuggets and joining the Warriors in 2013. Iguodala quickly became the glue guy, seamlessly transitioning from a starting role to a key reserve. His contributions were instrumental in the Warriors’ run to three NBA championships and five straight Finals appearances.
Much like his time with Team USA, Iguodala’s tenure with the Warriors has been defined by clutch performances and a deep understanding of the game, culminating in his NBA Finals MVP award in 2015.
The synergy between Iguodala’s Olympic experience and his Warriors tenure lies in his adaptability and basketball acumen. Both in London and in the Bay Area, he embraced roles that went beyond scoring, focusing on defense, playmaking, and leadership. This blend of skills has not only cemented his legacy as a consummate team player but also as a vital cog in one of the NBA’s most successful dynasties.