The U.S. men’s first appearance in Olympic 3×3 basketball at the Paris Games did not go as planned. They suffered a defeat at the hands of Serbia with a final score of 22-14. The Serbian team, led by Marko Brankovic and Strahinja Stojacic, proved to be too strong for the Americans. Although the U.S. brought in former NBA player Jimmer Fredette, their efforts were not enough to secure a victory. Fredette only managed to score four points during the game. Despite a late surge by Kareem Maddox and Canyon Barry, the U.S. fell short of a comeback, ultimately losing to Serbia.
One of the key factors in the U.S. team’s defeat was their missed opportunities on the court. While Serbia made all 12 of their 1-point shots, the Americans only converted 10 out of 16 attempts. This lack of efficiency cost them crucial points in the game. Additionally, neither team engaged with reporters after the match due to the impending severe storms in the area, showing a lack of communication and sportsmanship in the face of adversity.
In another intense matchup, France emerged victorious over Poland with a final score of 21-19. Lucas Dussoulier’s game-winning 2-pointer sealed the win for the French team. Despite a strong effort from Poland’s Przemysław Zamojski and Adrian Bogucki, France managed to hold on for the win. The game showcased the competitive nature of 3×3 basketball at the Olympic level.
Defending champion Latvia showcased their dominance in a convincing victory over Lithuania with a final score of 21-14. Led by Nauris Miezis, Latvia’s experienced lineup proved to be too much for Lithuania to handle. Miezis’s leadership and experience from the previous Olympics in Tokyo were instrumental in securing the win for his team. The game highlighted the importance of mental preparation and teamwork in Olympic competition.
The Netherlands managed to defeat China in a hard-fought battle with a final score of 21-16. Worthy de Jong’s stellar performance, including nine points and four rebounds, propelled the Dutch team to victory. Despite a late surge by China, the Netherlands maintained their composure and secured the win. The game showcased the competitive spirit and determination of both teams in Olympic 3×3 basketball.
The U.S. men’s struggle in Olympic 3×3 basketball serves as a valuable lesson in the importance of preparation, teamwork, and adaptability in competitive sports. While the road to success may be fraught with challenges, it is essential to learn from defeats and strive for improvement in future competitions. The Paris Games have provided a platform for athletes to showcase their skills and determination on the global stage, highlighting the unique and fast-paced nature of 3×3 basketball.