In a high-stakes semifinal matchup at the 2024 Olympics, the USA men's basketball team mounted an incredible comeback to edge out Serbia, 95-91. This hard-fought victory secures their place in the gold medal game against France.
An Improbable Comeback
The game was nothing short of thrilling. The USA had to claw back from a substantial deficit, trailing by as much as 17 points at one stage. They entered the final quarter down by 13 points, with Serbia dominating the game for over 35 of the 40 minutes.
Serbia showcased a formidable lineup featuring Aleksa Avramovic, Bogdan Bogdanovic, and Ognjen Dobric, who were in excellent form from beyond the arc. Nikola Jokic was a pivotal figure for Serbia, playing nearly the entire game and contributing 17 points along with a game-high 11 assists.
Veteran Leadership
As the game entered its final quarter, U.S. coach Steve Kerr made a decisive move. "Having spent most of the Olympics playing a deep rotation, U.S. coach Steve Kerr relied heavily on his veterans with the game on the line." His trust in veterans paid off as Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Joel Embiid, and Devin Booker took control of the game.
Stephen Curry was unstoppable, making nine 3-pointers and finishing with 36 points, the second-most by a U.S. men's basketball player in Olympic history. LeBron James, demonstrating his seasoned prowess, played the entire fourth quarter. With six points, six rebounds, and four assists in the final period, he notched his second career Olympic triple-double with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists overall. "James, meanwhile, was everywhere down the stretch. Playing the entire fourth quarter, he had six points, six rebounds and four assists and finished with his second career Olympics triple-double: 16 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists."
Turning the Tide
The USA's fourth-quarter push was phenomenal, outscoring Serbia 32-15. Their defensive effort was also commendable, as Serbia missed all nine of their 3-point attempts in the final quarter, highlighting the pressure the American side applied.
Steve Kerr's tactical substitutions were also spot on. Joel Embiid was brought in for Anthony Davis early in the fourth and stayed on until the final seconds. While Derrick White struggled during his 6:46 minute stint, with the USA being outscored by 16 points during his time on the court, the performances of the core veterans balanced out the team’s inconsistencies.
The Role of Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry was undoubtedly the game’s hero. His exceptional shooting kept the USA in contention throughout the game. His nine 3-pointers not only underscored his scoring ability but also provided the much-needed momentum for the dramatic turnaround. Curry’s 36 points were a testament to his leadership and clutch performance when it mattered the most.
LeBron James: The Triple-Double Machine
LeBron James' all-around performance cannot be overstated. James' ability to contribute across the board epitomized the depth of his experience and skill. His second career Olympic triple-double is a rare feat that further solidifies his status as one of basketball's greatest players.
Looking Ahead to the Gold Medal Game
With this victory, the USA looks forward to the gold medal game against France. As they progress, the blend of strategic coaching by Steve Kerr and the on-court prowess of seasoned players like Curry and James suggests the USA is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
The semifinal victory didn’t just secure a place in the gold medal game; it also highlighted the resilience and relentless spirit of the USA team. This triumph is a perfect example of how experience, strategy, and sheer determination can turn the tide in even the most challenging circumstances. The stage is now set for what promises to be an electrifying showdown for the Olympic gold.