The Team USA basketball rosters for the 2024 Olympics may be set, but changes can still occur.
The men’s team features stars such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Jayson Tatum.
Conversely, the women’s team is led by A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Diana Taurasi, Napheesa Collier, and Sabrina Ionescu, among other key players.
However, what happens if one of the players can’t make the trip to Paris due to injury or another reason? Here’s what to know about squad alternates for Olympic basketball:
What are alternates at the Olympics?
Alternates refer to backup players who could be called up if someone from the official roster needs to drop out.
For instance, the U.S. women’s national soccer team named four alternates for its 18-player roster. This allows the manager to pick one of those four players if someone from the original 18 can’t participate.
For the two 5×5 Team USA basketball teams, the player called up would depend on the position in question.
Who are the Team USA basketball men’s alternates at the Olympics?
Unlike the USWNT, which named four specific alternates, the Team USA basketball men’s team did not formally name alternates.
Instead, there is a 41-player pool of stars the team could draw upon if needed. With 12 on the official team, the pool actually consists of 29 players.
When Kawhi Leonard was announced as unable to play in Paris, USA Basketball called up Boston Celtics guard Derrick White to fill the roster spot.
Who are the Team USA basketball women’s alternates at the Olympics?
The women’s team also lacks a specific list of alternates.
However, Indiana Fever rookie star Caitlin Clark and Connecticut Sun forward/center Brionna Jones are reported as possible replacements, according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania.
When is basketball played at the 2024 Olympics?
The men’s games are scheduled from Saturday, July 27, through Saturday, Aug. 10. The women’s games will start on Sunday, July 28, and conclude on Sunday, Aug. 11.