Magic Johnson, USA 15-Card #54 (NBA Hoops/McDonald's, 1991).

Traditionally composed of amateur players, the U.S. dominated the first decades of international basketball, winning a record seven consecutive Olympic gold medals. However, by the end of the 1980s, American amateurs were no longer competitive against seasoned professionals from the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia.

In 1989, FIBA modified its rules and allowed USA Basketball to field teams with National Basketball Association (NBA) players. The first such team, known as the "Dream Team", won the gold medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, being superior in all matches. With the introduction of NBA players, the team was able to spark a second run of dominance in the 1990s.