For many decades with the emphasis of the Olympics being centered around the theme of "amateurism," FIBA barred the NBA from allowing its players to participate in Olympic competition. And for many of those decades, the United States dominated global competition. As the decade of the 80s began to wane, that was no longer the case. True to the "Olympic standard," the United States continued to send amateurs into Olympic competition despite professional basketball leagues in Europe being allowed to have their players participate. However, one vote in 1989 would change the Olympic basketball landscape forever. No longer would NBA stars be denied the chance to compete at the highest level of world competition.
Dubbed the "Dream Team," the 1992 United States basketball team has become widely recognized as the greatest collection of basketball talent to ever represent any nation in world competition. The committee's selection process began shortly following the 1991 NBA Finals that concluded in June of 1991. Hundreds of players to choose from but only 12 individuals were fortunate to have received invitations to represent the United States in what's known as "The Call." Looking back 30 years, here are the 12 individuals who should receive The Call.
First call ☎️: Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan fills every need required at the shooting guard position. A 7x All-Star, 6x All-NBA, and 4x All-Defensive First Team, Jordan is a premiere, two-way player not simply at his respective position, but in the entire NBA.
An emerging global icon in the prime of his career, fresh off of a championship and MVP season, Michael Jordan's star has never shined brighter on the court. In the 1987-88 season, Jordan won the scoring title, Defensive Player of the Year, Dunk Contest, All Star Game MVP, and League MVP. In 1991, the Chicago Bulls, led by Michael Jordan finally overcame their division foe and playoffs nemesis to reach the NBA Finals after falling short in the playoffs against the Detroit Pistons from 1988-90. Jordan would be named League MVP for the second time and Finals MVP for his dazzling performance in leading the Chicago Bulls to their first ever NBA championship.
Selling Point:
Michael, you're the greatest player in the world. That's why you're the first call. While you were on the Gold-medal winning United States team of 1984 in Los Angeles, this time around you'll get to play with the best players that the NBA has to offer. And have no worries. The next few phone calls that will be made will be to get you some talented running mates so that you will not have to carry a heavy load.
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