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Scottie Pippen predicts the US Olympic men’s basketball team will “bring home the gold”

E Scottiepippen 072021
Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

NBA legend Scottie Pippen has a special message for the US Olympic men’s basketball team, which stands to bring home a fourth consecutive gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics.

Speaking to ABC Audio, Pippen was asked about this year’s roster, which features a majority of first-time Olympians.  

The former Chicago Bulls player — who was a first time Olympian himself when he joined the 1992 Dream Team alongside Michael JordanMagic Johnson and Larry Bird — said this year’s roster features “the best [players] in the world.”

“I think those players have truly shown — throughout their careers — that they’re some of the top in the game,” Pippen remarked before diving into his prediction for how the team will perform in Tokyo.

Saying Team USA “will bond and gel throughout their practices and their preparation [and] training,” the basketball great declared, “They will do well and bring home the gold.”

Pippen, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, shouted out Kevin Durant.  The Brooklyn Nets player is primed to win his third gold medal at this year’s Olympics.  

“I’m wishing him to bring home the gold for Team USA,” Pippen expressed. “I think his leadership will truly be needed in this year’s Olympic Games, especially on the basketball stage.” 

Pippen also reminisced about his time playing in the 1992 and 1996 Olympics, noting the pressure athletes face when they compete on the world stage.

“You’re representing the country. The amount of people that are behind you and pulling for you, it’s an amazing feeling,” he recalled.  “It’s something I will never forget.” 

The US Olympic men’s basketball team tips off against France this Sunday at 8 a.m. ET.

Pippen is offering his Chicago mansion on Airbnb for three one-night stays — giving fans the opportunity to watch the Olympics in style — on August 2, 4, and 6.

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