After securing the gold medal with Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics, head coach Steve Kerr reflected on his experience coaching LeBron James. It was a special moment for Kerr, who has spent years strategizing against LeBron in the NBA, most notably in the five playoff battles between the Golden State Warriors and teams led by James, including four intense NBA Finals matchups.
“LeBron, what a blessing to coach him finally after all these years of coaching against him and trying to figure out how to beat him and to watch him up close. I’ve said this, you know, these past few weeks just to see his approach, to see his professionalism, how coachable he is.”
“And then, of course, just how gifted he is at everything—every part of the game he seems to have mastered. I’m thrilled to have been able to coach him these last six weeks, and I’m a LeBron fan for life.”
For Steve Kerr, who secured his first Olympic gold medal as a coach in his final game in this capacity, the experience was particularly meaningful. LeBron, who captured his third gold medal in what is also expected to be his last Olympic appearance, added another chapter to his storied career. The mutual respect and admiration between the two legends were evident throughout the tournament.
Kerr’s journey with LeBron could have taken a different path, as the Warriors reportedly explored a trade for James during the past season. Though that deal didn’t materialize, the opportunity to coach LeBron on the Olympic stage was a fitting culmination of their long-standing rivalry and professional relationship.
With Kerr having a 3-2 advantage over LeBron in their playoff meetings, he understands better than most how challenging it is to prepare for a player of James’ caliber. This Olympic experience allowed Kerr to see firsthand what makes LeBron so special—not just as a player, but as a leader and teammate. It’s a relationship that will leave a lasting impact on both men as they reflect on their careers and the rare chance they had to work together on the world’s biggest stage.
LeBron James And The ‘Oldheads’ Led The Way When It Mattered The Most
When it came down to the most crucial moments of the 2024 Paris Olympics, it was the “oldheads” of Team USA—LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant—who stepped up and led the way. Despite being the three oldest players on the roster, their experience and leadership proved invaluable in guiding the team to its fifth consecutive gold medal.
In the semifinals against Serbia, Team USA found themselves in a deep hole, trailing by as many as 17 points. It was Stephen Curry who spearheaded the comeback, erupting for 36 points on 12-of-19 shooting, including 9-of-14 from beyond the arc. LeBron James also played a pivotal role, notching a rare Olympic triple-double with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists. Kevin Durant contributed 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, including some crucial baskets in the closing minutes to seal the 95-91 victory.
The Finals against France saw these seasoned veterans shine once again. Curry led the scoring charge with 24 points, hitting 8-of-13 from three-point range and adding 5 assists and 2 steals. LeBron continued his all-around brilliance with 14 points, 10 assists, and 6 rebounds on 6-of-10 shooting. Durant added 15 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists, making his presence felt on both ends of the floor.
When the stakes were highest, LeBron, Curry, and Durant showed why they are among the greatest players of their generation. Their performances were a testament to their experience, poise, and ability to deliver under pressure. Despite their advanced age by NBA standards, the “oldheads” of Team USA demonstrated that they still have what it takes to compete at the highest level and lead their country to victory.
As LeBron and his fellow veterans now likely step away from international competition, they do so with their legacy firmly intact—having led Team USA to yet another gold medal when it mattered the most.
