Although it may still be three years away, the composition of Team USA for the 2028 Summer Olympics has already been heavily speculated about. A question some Charlotte Hornets fans might have is who will represent the organization in the tournament. If Bill Simmons turns out to be correct, Kon Knueppel would join the squad.
While Knueppel definitely has the skills that would prove helpful for the U.S. men's national basketball team, it's a bit inane to think that he would get the nod ahead of his more heralded teammate, LaMelo Ball. Even Brandon Miller, who might be the more logical option now for the red, white, and blue.
Per Simmons, though, it is a "guarantee" that Knueppel would be one of the 12 guys playing for Team USA in 2028. He said as much during an appearance on Zach Lowe's podcast, citing how the Duke University product is "perfect for international basketball" because of his ability to play multiple positions and switchability on defense.
The Ringer founder also had an interesting comparison for Knueppel: Derrick White. He didn't say that the players have similar play styles, instead noting how the 20-year-old appears to know where to go and what to do on the floor. In addition, the youngster's 3-point shooting prowess, underrated knack for crashing the boards, and willingness to defer to stars, as he had shown during his time with Cooper Flagg at Duke last season, could make him a valuable glue guy for Team USA.
Being in the running to represent his country in international hoops does look like a reality waiting to happen for Knueppel. Even before he has appeared in his first official NBA game, he has already displayed All-Star potential.
However, does he really deserve to be considered for Team USA's Olympic club first before Ball?
LaMelo Ball has his work cut out for him to suit up for the U.S.
Talent-wise, there's no doubt that Melo has the chops to be one of the 12 Americans to play in the Olympics. It would also be serendipitous for the young star to be chosen in 2028 because the quadrennial event would be held in Los Angeles, near his hometown of Chino Hills.
Several obstacles stand in his way of fulfilling that dream. He has yet to prove that injuries won't derail his promising career any further. And suppose that his health holds up, Ball still has to establish himself as one of the league's elite backcourt players.
Another hurdle is that the U.S. already has plenty of options at the guard positions. It's a near certainty that Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, Devin Booker, and Jalen Brunson, all of whom served key roles in the past two Team USA iterations, will earn a roster spot in 2028. Cade Cunningham, Trae Young, Donovan Mitchell, Ja Morant, and Tyler Herro will likewise merit consideration.
So, Ball has a steep hill to climb to join Team USA in the coming Olympic tournaments. Hopefully, he can prove himself to USA Basketball in the following years.