The U.S. men’s basketball national team practice had a surprise visitor on Tuesday: Vice President Kamala Harris stopped by Team USA training camp but didn’t leave without delivering a clear message.
“Bring back the gold medal,” Harris told the team.
Harris, a California native, has previously voiced his support for the Golden State Warriors. Team USA is currently led by Warriors coach Steve Kerr and features Stephen Curry on this year’s roster.
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Vice President Kamala Harris attends practice during USAB men’s training camp at UNLV on July 9, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Jim Porten/NBAE via Getty Images)
Carr said the vice president’s visit reminded everyone of the great opportunity the team has to represent the United States.
“This is a great reminder that we’re playing for our country,” Kerr said. “Vice President Harris told the players how much she respects them, that they truly represent excellence, and that we’re going there to win a gold medal for our country. She said this is an expression of our patriotism, that we’re part of something special for our country. And I think the players really listened to every word.”
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Harris was spotted chatting with two-time Olympic gold medalist LeBron James and also posed for a group photo with the team.
Jrue Holiday (number 12) and Jayson Tatum (number 10) of the USA men’s basketball team smile during USA Basketball men’s training camp on July 9, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
“Truly, you are the best of the best,” Harris told the players, “and as Team USA, you represent our country. You are ambassadors of who our country is, just like you do every day on and off the court. You represent leadership in all walks of life. And the fact that you went to Paris and brought home a gold medal is just another example of your excellence, teamwork, compassion and dedication.”
USA men’s basketball team players LeBron James (number 6) and Tyrese Haliburton (number 9) watch during USA Basketball men’s training camp on July 9, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
Erik Spoelstra, an assistant coach for the U.S. team and longtime head coach of the Miami Heat, said he had no idea Harris would stop by practice.
“It was a really special moment for the whole group,” Spoelstra said. “She said we’re representing our country and everyone’s going to be watching and cheering for us and it’s a big responsibility, but she knows we’re all representing everyone here and working to do it with class.”
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The U.S. men’s team plays the first of five pre-Olympic exhibition games against Canada on Wednesday in Las Vegas. Though the game is not Olympic-related (the first game in France is July 28 against Serbia), Harris encouraged his team to get going now.
“Our country is rooting for you and we are so proud of you,” Harris said. “Beat Canada and bring home the gold medal.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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