In the realm of international basketball, the Olympics serve as the ultimate stage for players to showcase their skills and represent their respective countries. This year, 26 NBA teams have players competing in the Olympics, but sadly, the New York Knicks are not among them. Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart were the only Knicks players who had a chance at making the US squad, but unfortunately, both fell short of making the final cut. On the bright side, there were other potential Knicks representatives, such as Precious Achiuwa for Nigeria and OG Anunoby for Great Britain. However, the Knicks had previously traded away players like Bojan Bogdanovic, Evan Fournier, and RJ Barrett.
Despite the Knicks’ absence in this year’s Olympics, history shows that the team has produced some remarkable talents who have thrived on the international stage. Let’s take a look at the top three Knicks players in Olympics history:
Jerry Lucas, a Knicks player from 1971-1973, made his mark in the 1960 Olympics, leading the USA team to a gold medal. Known for his scoring prowess, Lucas averaged 17 points per game during the Olympics and played a vital role in the team’s success. His on-court contributions were instrumental in securing victory for the USA, showcasing his skills as a versatile player.
Patrick Ewing, a legendary figure in Knicks history, participated in two Olympics, winning gold medals in 1984 and 1992. Ewing’s defensive prowess was on full display in the Olympics, as he averaged 1.2 blocks per game and showcased his rebounding skills with an average of 10.7 boards per 36 minutes. While Ewing may have been a role player on the international stage, his impact on the game was undeniable, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest Knicks players of all time.
Carmelo Anthony, a standout player for the Knicks, has had a stellar career in the Olympics, winning three gold medals and one bronze. Melo’s scoring ability was on full display in the Olympics, with his 37-point performance against Nigeria in 2012 standing out as a memorable highlight. As one of the most decorated Olympians in Knicks history, Melo’s contributions on the international stage have solidified his status as a basketball icon.
While the Knicks have faced challenges on the international stage in the past, there is optimism for the future. With a forward-thinking front office and a promising roster, the Knicks are poised to make a return to the upper echelons of the Eastern Conference. As the team continues to build towards success, the legacy of Knicks players in the Olympics will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to their talent and dedication to the game.
