Even in death, his accomplishments in the game of basketball are still recognized.
The 2008 USA Olympics “Redeem Team” is heading to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
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Congratulations to #25HoopClass Inductee — the 2008 @usabasketball Redeem Team! ???? pic.twitter.com/Bodroiczwz
— NBA Alumni ???? (@NBAalumni) April 5, 2025
IT’S OFFICIAL: The 2008 Redeem Team will be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025 ???????? pic.twitter.com/SWr5h2UaBn
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) April 7, 2025
After the 2004 team failed to capture a gold medal in the olympics and 2006 FIBA World Championship, Coach Mike Krzyzewski was named the new head coach and Kobe Bryant was added to the 2008 team.
In paying homage to the 1992 “Dream Team,” the 2008 group advanced to the Gold Medal Game where it faced Paul Gasol, Marc Gasol, and Spain. Team USA earned a 118-107 victory, capturing a gold medal and returning the United States to being the best in basketball. The team’s roster included Bryant, Carlos Boozer, Jason Kidd, LeBron James, Deron Williams, Dwayne Wade, Dwight Howard, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Chris Bosh, Michael Redd, and Tayshaun Prince. Bryant was the captain of the team at 29 and played with a lethal level of intensity.
Wade was the team’s leading scorer, averaging 16 points per game.
2008 brought pride back to the U.S. in basketball, and it’s huge to see the “Redeem Team” in the Hall of Fame.
Stephen M. Smith is a writer for Ball Exclusives. You can follow him him X via @CoachingMSmith.
