Victor Wembanyama Forces Team USA to Rely on Four Centers for 2028 Olympics

Team USA basketball will face its toughest test yet at the 2028 Olympics, with Victor Wembanyama and France poised to challenge for gold. After narrowly beating France in 2024, the Americans now must contend with a more dominant Wembanyama, who could lead his team to a historic victory.

Why is Victor Wembanyama such a threat?

Wembanyama’s unique combination of size, skill, and versatility makes him nearly unstoppable. At 7'4", he can dominate both offensively and defensively, posing a matchup nightmare for any team. Team USA’s lack of traditional big men capable of handling his physicality could be their downfall.

Who will Team USA rely on to stop Wembanyama?

According to NBC’s Kurt Helin, Bam Adebayo is a lock for Team USA’s roster due to his two-way ability and experience in FIBA play. Behind him, Evan Mobley, Chet Holmgren, and Walker Kessler or Jalen Duren are expected to fill out the center rotation. However, none have proven they can contain Wembanyama.

What makes France dangerous beyond Wembanyama?

France’s roster will also feature Alexandre Sarr, Rudy Gobert, and a host of NBA and EuroLeague talents. With Wembanyama anchoring the middle, France could become the fifth country to win Olympic gold in men’s basketball, joining the USA, Soviet Union, Yugoslavia, and Argentina.