July 17, 2024
The U.S. men’s basketball team wrapped up its pre-Olympic exhibition schedule with a flawless 5-0 record, yet lingering concerns remain as they prepare to defend their gold medal in Paris. While dominant wins against Canada, Spain, and Australia showcased their elite talent, tougher-than-expected battles against South Sudan and Germany highlighted areas in need of improvement.
Strong Performances, But Defensive Concerns Persist
LeBron James, returning to Team USA for the first time in over a decade, played a steadying role, providing leadership and veteran presence in critical moments. Kevin Durant, continuing his legacy as one of the most prolific international scorers, averaged 18 points per game while serving as the team’s go-to offensive option.
However, their undefeated record did not come without adversity. Against Germany, Team USA found itself in an unexpected hole, trailing by 12 points in the third quarter before a furious rally led by Anthony Edwards and Jayson Tatum secured a comeback win. Head coach Steve Kerr emphasized the need for defensive adjustments, particularly in transition defense, where both South Sudan and Germany exposed vulnerabilities.
Chemistry and Rotations Still in Progress
One of the biggest storylines surrounding Team USA is how quickly a roster full of NBA superstars can gel into a cohesive unit. With players accustomed to being the focal points of their respective teams, adapting to roles that emphasize ball movement, defense, and off-ball play has been a work in progress. While flashes of offensive brilliance have been evident, stretches of stagnant play have raised concerns about execution against disciplined international squads.
Big man depth has also emerged as a question mark, with the U.S. relying on a smaller lineup at times. Facing dominant centers like Nikola Jokić (Serbia) and Rudy Gobert (France) in Olympic competition will test their ability to defend against size in the paint.
Paris Awaits: Early Test Against Serbia
Despite the areas for improvement, Team USA remains the heavy favorite to capture gold. Their unparalleled depth, versatility, and experience still present significant challenges for any opponent. However, as other nations continue to develop elite talent and close the gap in international competition, complacency is not an option.
Their Olympic journey begins with a high-stakes opener against Serbia, where Jokić and company will provide an immediate test for Team USA’s defensive discipline. With expectations sky-high, the U.S. will need to refine its game quickly to ensure another golden moment on the world stage.
