The reason why basketball at the Olympics is considered the prime competition is probably due to the old rivalry between the USA and the Sovjet Union. The Olympics were used by the US and Sovjet governments as a tool too showcase their power. And when the US non-professional basketball teams started loosing gold medals during the Olympics, the Americans were out to prove something. So in 1992 they assembled arguably the best team ever in any sport. The USA Dream Team. This team became an example of excellence in any sport. That's because they were so much better than any other team. Due to this, many NBA players want to be part of the same team Jordan, Magic, Bird made world famous. So the best NBA players are usually keen in participating during the Olympics.
In a way though, this underrates the sport. A gold medal at the Olympics is worth as much as a gold for 3X3 basketball, water polo, or whatever sport. Prestige wise however, it is a great achievement to be the number one team in a team sport played by so many people all around the world. As such, basketball should have its own unique prime competition every four years. The World Cup basketball.
What are your thoughts on this?
In a way though, this underrates the sport. A gold medal at the Olympics is worth as much as a gold for 3X3 basketball, water polo, or whatever sport. Prestige wise however, it is a great achievement to be the number one team in a team sport played by so many people all around the world. As such, basketball should have its own unique prime competition every four years. The World Cup basketball.
What are your thoughts on this?
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