No other team in the history of Olympic basketball has been as successful as the United States of America. With a record of 16 wins, including an unbeaten streak from 1936 to 1968, the USA Olympic men’s team has won the gold medal. The US women’s basketball team has nine gold medals. The US Olympic team draws attention not only for their skills and strategies but also for sticking to their distinct jerseys.

One curious feature is the restricted range of jersey numbers on the US team. Stephen Curry made number 30 iconic with the Golden State Warriors, but he never wore the number with the USA. The Baby-Faced Assassin probably wore 4 out of restriction rather than preference. “Number nine was just given to me through USA basketball,” A’ja Wilson said. “I didn’t really have a choice.” The same is the case with women’s basketball. Why would this be?

Initially, FIBA had a mandatory rule that players in international competitions had to wear jerseys only between numbers 4 and 15. FIBA implemented this rule to standardize the game, but they later relaxed it. Despite this, USA basketball continues to stick to their tradition of wearing 4 to 15, shedding light on their rich history. Each number carries a legacy of past legends who wore the same digits on the Olympic stage.

Craig Miller, in an interview with FIBA a few years ago, said, “We like the idea of there being a legacy with the number.” “The 4–15 tradition, and we can track who’s worn them. A lot of famous players who have had great careers started by wearing a number five or a 12, for example,” he continued. “It’s part of what we try to teach our guys—who came before them and the tradition they have to carry on.” It also makes it easier for game officials to communicate with hand signals, as per NBC Olympics’ Nick Zaccardi.

Team USA men’s basketball jersey numbers for the 2024 Olympics

Team USA women’s basketball jersey numbers for the 2024 Olympics

The practice of donning jerseys numbered 4 to 15 also serves as a major source of motivation for the athletes. The players understand the honor and responsibility of wearing a historic jersey number. Tradition and legacy can motivate athletes to give their all, knowing they’re part of something bigger.

USA Basketball continues to use jersey numbers 4 to 15, defying FIBA’s rule change in 2014. This practice strengthens team identity and unity by honoring the history of international basketball. In the 2024 Olympics, these numbers will carry significance beyond player identification. What do you think about US basketball’s jersey tradition?