Phoenix Suns superstar Devin Booker played a key role in leading Team USA to a gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics, providing an inside look at the team’s triumphant run through a behind-the-scenes video.
Booker, who initially responded, “I’ll do it,” when Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma challenged the U.S. to bring in “NBA stars that know how to play a role,” delivered on that promise with his crucial contributions both on and off the court.
The 14-minute video Booker shared on Instagram offered a rare glimpse into the team’s journey, from the locker room camaraderie to the intensity of the knockout rounds. In a particularly revealing moment, Booker candidly shared with the Serbian national team members his belief that the Americans were heading for defeat in the semifinals, only to witness the U.S. rally for a 95-91 victory.
While Booker may not have been the flashiest star on a talent-laden roster, head coach Steve Kerr praised him as the “kind of our unsung MVP.” Booker’s steady production—averaging 11.7 points and shooting a blistering 56.5% from beyond the arc—along with his commitment to defense and team play, helped bring balance to the squad.
“Devin is just the ultimate glue guy,” Kerr said after the gold medal game. “He does all the little things that don’t show up in the box score, but they’re integral to our success.”
Booker’s willingness to embrace a supporting role, rather than demanding the spotlight, epitomized the unselfish spirit that powered the U.S. to the top of the podium. His candid footage offered fans a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the camaraderie and chemistry that fueled the team’s triumph.
“This was an incredible experience, and I wanted to share a little bit of what it was like for us,” Booker said in the video’s caption. We forged a strong bond, faced challenges, and ultimately, brought home the gold medal.
While Booker may not have been the headline-grabbing star of the Olympics, his contributions did not go unnoticed. The 27-year-old’s willingness to accept a supporting role and his impact on both ends of the floor played a vital part in the U.S. reclaiming the gold medal.
As the NBA season approaches, Booker and the Phoenix Suns will look to carry that championship mentality back to the professional ranks. With Booker leading the way, the Suns will be poised to make a deep playoff run and potentially contend for an NBA title.
“Devin is the ultimate team player,” said Suns teammate Bradley Beal. “He showed that on the biggest stage, and I know he’s going to bring that same energy and mindset back to us in Phoenix.”
With Booker’s leadership and the team’s newfound championship pedigree, the Suns are primed to make noise in the NBA this season. Fans can’t wait to see what Booker and his teammates have in store.