Out of 592 athletes on Team USA, 18 were from Maryland, 15 from Virginia, and 1 from DC. Marylanders number was not just for show as the athletes cumulatively brought home a total of 12 medals, including six golds, making the state proud. Aside from this, some of the athletes also made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics showcasing remarkable talent from Maryland.Â
Quincy Wilson
The teenager made history on its way to the Olympics and he continued even in the Games. Wilson from Bowie emerged as the youngest male athlete to win a gold medal for Team USA at just 16 years old. Competing in the men’s 4×400 meter relay, Wilson’s achievement highlights the potential of young athletes from the state.
Kevin Durant
Suitland’s Kevin Durant further solidified his legacy by earning his fifth Olympic gold medal, the most by any basketball player in Team USA history. He also holds the record for the most total points scored in Olympic basketball.
In the USA’s opening game against Serbia, 35-year-old Kevin Durant led all scorers with 23 points. Durant’s leadership and skill were instrumental in guiding the team to victory, adding to his already illustrious career as one of basketball’s greatest players.
Katie Ledecky
Maryland’s representation extended beyond these standout performances. Katie Ledecky, a Bethesda native, continued her dominance in swimming, adding to her collection of Olympic golds. Other notable athletes included wrestlers Aaron Brooks and Helen Maroulis, who both competed fiercely, and gymnast Khoi Young, who made his Olympic debut.
University of Maryland
Like the University of Washington, the University of Maryland also had athletes. Alyssa Thomas and Thea LaFond both secured gold medals in the same year. LaFond made history for Dominica by winning the nation’s first-ever Olympic medal, showcasing the growing diversity and talent in Olympic sports.
