One of the biggest disappointments of Team USA this season was forward Brandon Ingram of the New Orleans Pelicans. Though he was originally touted as one of the best players on the squad, he ultimately got benched as the team finished the tournament without a medal.
It seems as though Ingram has an explanation for why he struggled on the international stage, and coach Willie Green stated that Ingram thinks he could have been utilized better by Team USA.
"We all watched those games [FIBA]. I'm sure the team was disappointed... Brandon felt like he could have been used better... I'm expecting BI to have a chip on his shoulder."
It is fair to say that Ingram was not in his ideal role on Team USA. The ball was largely dominated by Anthony Edwards and Jalen Brunson, and Ingram was frequently relegated to spotting up in the corner or having to create his own opportunities when he did get the ball. Hopefully, he is able to learn from this experience with the national team and succeed this season with the Pelicans. It definitely seems as though Ingram is motivated to do so.
This past season, Brandon Ingram averaged 24.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game while shooting 39.0% from 3PT range. Though he wasn't at his best in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, he is widely viewed as one of the better offensive wing players in the NBA.
Brandon Ingram Previously Spoke About His Struggle On Team USA
Previously, we saw Brandon Ingram speak about his frustrations on the national squad. Ingram suggested that he was not happy with his role on Team USA, admitting that it was a "little frustrating".
"This is totally different than what I am used to. The team is winning right now, so I can’t be selfish thinking about myself. But it’s a little frustrating right now for me, and I’m just trying to figure out ways I can be effective.”
Ultimately, what matters more for Brandon Ingram is how he does in the NBA with the New Orleans Pelicans. He will be utilized more in an on-ball role with the franchise, and he has the playmaking ability to elevate his teammates. Hopefully, the Pelicans can thrive under his leadership, and his success will be directly tied to how far the franchise goes.
The New Orleans Pelicans Need Zion Williamson And Brandon Ingram To Stay Healthy
The New Orleans Pelicans' success will be determined by Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson this season. The duo clearly has the talent, but the key will definitely be staying healthy for both players. Last season, Ingram only played 45 games, while Williamson played 29 games.
Hopefully, we see the New Orleans Pelicans take a step forward this season, and become contenders. The talent level is there on the roster, but they need to come together from a chemistry standpoint.
It remains to be seen how the Pelicans will do next season. They have a very high ceiling as a team, but there's no question that a lot of uncertainty surrounds the current iteration of the franchise.
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