Zach LAVINE

Zach LaVine almost missed his chance at glory at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games when he was placed in the COVID-19 health and safety protocols just before the tournament began. However, fate smiled upon Team USA as the shooting guard was cleared in time to join his teammates in Japan. As the sixth man, the Renton native made a significant contribution in helping the side secure its fourth consecutive Olympic Gold.

"It was incredible," LaVine said, recounting the triumph in an interview with Bleacher Report. "I think a lot of us were talking about how this is probably the best team that you'll play on with this calibre of player. That experience and getting close to the coaching staff and the guys was great. It built a bond.

"For me to bring back some of those experiences, be around those high-IQ coaches and players, and learn from them is something I'll definitely be bringing back."