4 Grizzlies who must play in 2028 Los Angeles Olympics

Grizzlies Player No. 2) Jaren Jackson Jr.

Jaren Jackson Jr.'s omission from this summer's events was a bit perplexing for some to see, especially considering he was a featured participant on the United States FIBA World Cup team just last year.

Though it's hard to argue they made the wrong decision to form a team without him in tow, as they boasted a lethal big man rotation consisting of Anthony Davis, Joel Embiid, and Bam Adebayo, and, ultimately, took home the Gold medal in the process, come 2028 the majority of Team USA's collection of ballers will be in their mid-to-late 30s while Jackson will be at the prime age of 27.

Because of this, unless their frontcourt core finds a way to stave off father time, it's hard to envision a scenario where the Grizzlies star doesn't make his way onto Steven Kerr's roster.

Though already an established elite defender, with every passing season it appears Jackson is solidifying his status more and more as being an all-around stud on the hardwood, as he's coming off a 2023-24 run where he dropped career-highs in points (22.5) and assists (2.3) and drew much-warranted attention from coach Jenkins for his overall development as a player.

With his ability to slot in at either the four or five, space the floor, and guard almost anyone on the court, Team USA could seriously benefit from having a guy like Jackson on their roster for the 2028 Olympics.