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This has been a big couple of days for Josh Hart. First, he exercised his 2023-24 player option to remain a New York Knick. Then, he joined yet another prestigious basketball team:
New York Knicks G Josh Hart has committed to the final roster spot on the 12-man Team USA FIBA World Cup team this summer in the Philippines, sources tell ESPN. He joins his Knicks teammate Jalen Brunson on the American team.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2023
He joins Jalen Brunson as the only Knicks on Team USA. While Brunson should — I repeat, should — get the starting point guard job, Hart will likely struggle to find playing time on a USA squad stacked with young wings.
Full Team USA roster:
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) July 2, 2023
Guards: Jalen Brunson, Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, Austin Reaves
Forwards: Paolo Banchero, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, Jaren Jackson Jr., Cam Johnson
Centers: Walker Kessler, Bobby Portis https://t.co/7iPqJxoLGp
Critics are saying this USA team lacks the size necessary to compete. Walker Kessler and former Knick Bobby Portis are the team’s only true centers, though they can (and should) experiment with Jaren Jackson Jr. at the 5. But Hart plays much bigger than his size, and he could be a real asset as a defender and rebounder.
But will Hart get minutes? Team USA usually blows out a few teams in the opening rounds, so he should make a few appearances. Either way, he’s a great teammate.
Best of luck in the World Cup, Jalen and Josh. Represent the orange and blue with pride.
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