The 2023 USA Basketball Men’s U16 National Team might be the most talented group ever assembled at this level. With future stars like AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer sharing the floor, the squad didn’t just win — they dominated. Their remarkable run at the FIBA U16 Americas Championship has fans and commentators alike wondering: Was this the greatest U16 Team USA ever?
This team created history in a way that will never be forgotten, from dominating opponents to displaying NBA-caliber abilities.
Meet the Future Stars Powering Team USA’s Dominance
The 2023 U16 team was loaded from top to bottom.
With FIBA action starting up again soon, here’s a look back at what might’ve been the best U16 team of all time:
AJ Dybantsa
A 6’8″ wing widely regarded as the top prospect in the 2025 class, Dybantsa is a guard with exceptional athleticism, scoring versatility and a competitive edge that sets him apart.
Darryn Peterson
A 6’6″ guard who combines elite size with smooth scoring ability and high-level playmaking skills.
Cameron Boozer
A 6’9″ forward and the son of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer, Boozer adds a rare combination of strength, touch around the rim and basketball IQ.
All of the team’s players are regarded as top-tier prospects, with many expected to have bright college — and possibly NBA — futures.
The projected starting five of Cayden Boozer, Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, Koa Peat and Cameron Boozer featured a perfect combination of size, skill, defense and scoring punch.
Pure Dominance on the Court
Team USA made it clear they were the best as soon as the tournament began. Over six games at the FIBA U16 Americas Championship, they outscored opponents by an average of more than 80 points per game — an absolutely incredible margin.
Their final game against Canada demonstrated their strength, winning 118-36 to claim the gold medal. AJ Dybantsa led the way, but every player contributed, from fast-break finishes to relentless defense.
What made this team so exceptional wasn’t just their talent — it was how well they played together.
They made every possession count, moved the ball crisply, trusted one another defensively and maintained intensity at both ends. Head coach Sharman White and his staff deserve much credit for assembling and leading a roster full of future stars.
A Legacy Already Taking Shape
The 2023 U16 team is already being compared to some of the best youth teams in USA Basketball history due to their overwhelming wins, depth at every position and several players projected to be future NBA lottery picks.
Looking ahead, the possibilities are endless for these young talents. Cameron Boozer’s steady growth suggests he’ll also be selected in the first round later on, and AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson are regarded as top prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft (once eligible).
KEEP READING: AJ Dybantsa Speaks on BYU’s Future
If the preliminary results are any indication, USA Basketball fans should be thrilled — the next generation of American basketball is in very good hands.
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