In a commanding 110-84 victory over Serbia, Team USA showcased their depth and versatility in the Paris Olympics, leading some to suggest that this team might rival or even surpass the legendary 1992 Dream Team. Serbian coach Svetislav Pesic, who had made bold comparisons before the tournament, might find more reason to support his claim after witnessing the game.
USA men’s basketball team dominates Serbia in the opening game of Paris Olympics group play.#UsaBasketball #Dominates #Serbiahttps://t.co/DN3LreUIUo
— USA Top Trends (@USATopTrendsCom) July 29, 2024
Kevin Durant returned to the court with a stellar performance, scoring 23 points in just 17 minutes without missing a shot until the fourth quarter. LeBron James also shone, contributing 21 points and nine assists. The team’s offensive efficiency was remarkable, with a 56% success rate from beyond the arc and 68% from two-point range. This offensive display was complemented by strong defensive efforts from Jrue Holiday, Bam Adebayo, Anthony Davis, and Derrick White.
Despite the dominant win, some concerns were evident. Team USA had 17 turnovers and moments of offensive stagnation, allowing Serbia to capitalize at times. Notably, Joel Embiid struggled, recording a negative plus-minus and failing to find his rhythm against Nikola Jokic.
Coach Steve Kerr’s rotation choices sparked discussion, particularly with Jayson Tatum’s unexpected absence from the game. Kerr explained that he made lineup decisions based on the combinations he felt were most effective, acknowledging the challenge of managing such a talented roster.
Team USA Dominates in the Olympic Opener! Kevin Durant and LeBron James lead the charge as U.S. basketball crushes Serbia 110-84. Exciting start to their quest for a fifth consecutive gold. Read more at https://t.co/VzhqT3lK4Q #Olympics2024 #TeamUSA #Basketball #Durant #LeBron… pic.twitter.com/rmSX2rtf2M
— newslink7.com (@Newslink7com) July 28, 2024
The team’s depth, featuring stars like Stephen Curry, Devin Booker, and Anthony Edwards, offers Kerr a wealth of options, particularly in crunch-time situations. The versatility and adaptability of players like Tatum and the continued dominance of veterans like Durant and James ensure that Team USA remains a formidable force.
As Team USA heads into group play, the strategic decisions on rotations and player usage will be crucial. The team’s performance so far has affirmed their potential to be one of the greatest assemblies in Olympic basketball history, supporting Pesic’s high praise.
Key Points:
i. Team USA defeated Serbia 110-84 in the Paris Olympics, showcasing their deep and versatile roster.
ii. Kevin Durant scored 23 points in 17 minutes, and LeBron James added 21 points and nine assists, highlighting the team’s offensive efficiency.
iii. Concerns included 17 turnovers and Joel Embiid’s struggles, who recorded a negative plus-minus.
iv. Coach Steve Kerr’s lineup choices, including Jayson Tatum’s absence, sparked discussion on the team’s depth and rotation strategies.
v. The victory reinforced the potential of this Team USA lineup, drawing comparisons to the 1992 Dream Team.
Conner T – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
