Paolo Banchero, the Orlando Magic star, has quickly risen to prominence since being selected first overall in the 2022 NBA Draft. Immediately after leaving Duke, he delivered impressive performances, averaging 20 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game to earn Rookie of the Year honors. Banchero’s rapid development has transformed the Magic into a serious playoff contender, establishing him as one of the NBA’s most versatile scorers. His progression has now positioned him to take on a significant leadership role on Team USA’s basketball team at the 2028 Olympics.
Predicted Front-Runner for Team USA’s 2028 Olympic Squad
Adam Finkelstein of CBS Sports has identified Banchero as the likely centerpiece for Team USA’s basketball roster in the 2028 Olympic Games. At 25 years old by then, Banchero is expected to be a top scorer competing on the international stage. Finkelstein emphasized Banchero’s growth and potential by stating,
“Banchero is still just 22 years old and he’s already established himself as one of the best forwards in the league and a future face of American basketball. His blend of power, athleticism, and self-creation seems to grow with each passing year. The extension of his skill-set also makes him a good fit for FIBA style competition.” — Adam Finkelstein, CBS Sports Insider
Last season, Banchero anchored the Magic’s offense with a career-high 25.9 points per game, while shooting 32 percent from beyond the arc. Despite his 6-foot-10 frame, he excels in mid-range shooting and does not rely solely on driving to the basket. His versatility has been enhanced through training sessions with established stars like Kevin Durant, helping him evolve into a complete and dangerous offensive threat.
The Emerging Generation of Team USA Leaders
With veterans such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry expected to be absent from future Olympics, younger stars are preparing to fill the void on Team USA. Players like Anthony Edwards, Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton appear ready to take leading roles. In this competitive landscape, Banchero’s unique skill set may help him stand out and secure a key position on the squad.
Finkelstein further described Banchero’s adaptability by noting,
“He can operate as the mismatch, Playmaking forward we see in the NBA, but you can also put him at the five and play offensively dynamic smallball line-ups that would allow him to punish opposing centers and create maximum spacing. The fact that he’s been in the USA Basketball system since 2018 when he was just 15 years old should only help.” — Adam Finkelstein, CBS Sports Insider
Looking Ahead: Banchero’s Impact on Orlando Magic and Team USA
As the Orlando Magic continue to build around Paolo Banchero, his growth will be crucial both for the team’s success and his international prospects. His scoring ability, versatility, and experience within the USA Basketball system create a strong foundation for him to emerge as a future face of American basketball. The 2028 Olympics represent a significant opportunity for Banchero to showcase his talents on a global platform, further solidifying his status as a central figure in the next generation of NBA stars and Team USA leaders.
For Orlando Magic fans, Banchero’s development symbolizes hope and passion for a rising franchise eager to compete at the highest levels, both in the NBA and on the international stage.