The 2024 Paris Olympics basketball opener saw a dominant performance from Team USA, spearheaded by seasoned Olympians LeBron James and Kevin Durant. In a game that many expect to be their final Olympic appearance, the duo showcased why they are considered among the game's greats. James and Durant combined for an impressive 44 points on 17-of-22 shooting, leading their team to a resounding 110-84 victory over Serbia.
LeBron and Durant Lead the Way
LeBron James was a force to be reckoned with, not just offensively but across the board. He recorded nine assists, eight rebounds, and scored 21 points. His all-around game set the tone for Team USA. Durant, who entered the game from the bench, made an immediate impact. Trailing by six points in the first quarter, Team USA turned to Durant, whose performance helped transform the deficit into a five-point lead by the end of the quarter.
James and Durant's flawless first half cemented the team's dominance, shooting a perfect 13-for-13 collectively and racking up 33 points. Their experience and poise were palpable, providing a steady hand and unerring accuracy when it mattered most.
Shooting Stars Shine Bright
Team USA dazzled with their shooting prowess, converting a remarkable 62% from the field and 56% from three-point range. Devin Booker was clinical from beyond the arc, draining four of his five attempts. Jrue Holiday and Stephen Curry contributed significantly to the team’s perimeter shooting, with Holiday converting four of his five 3-pointers and Curry making three out of seven. Anthony Edwards also impressed, successfully making two of his three shots from three-point land.
The team's collective shooting excellence highlighted their offensive strategy and execution, making them a formidable opponent on the court.
Serbia’s Gallant Effort Falls Short
Serbia, led by Nikola Jokic, struggled to keep pace with the Americans’ hot shooting. Jokic showed flashes of brilliance, as he always does, but the team’s 9-for-37 performance from three-point range ultimately undermined their efforts. Despite the skill and effort displayed by Jokic and his teammates, they couldn't match the efficiency and depth of the United States' roster.
The disparity in three-point shooting percentages underscored the game’s outcome. While Team USA’s sharpshooters were nearly automatic, Serbia’s attempts were largely unsuccessful, contributing to their 26-point defeat.
Durant’s Legacy Continues
For Kevin Durant, coming off the bench didn't diminish his impact on the game or his standing as an international basketball icon. Durant is the all-time leading scorer for the USA in international play, a testament to his sustained excellence over multiple Olympic cycles. His ongoing contributions, even in what many speculate to be his final Olympic outing, reinforce his legendary status.
Looking Forward
Absent from the game was Jayson Tatum, whose absence was noticeable but not detrimental given the depth and experience of the roster. As Team USA moves forward in the tournament, the presence of such high-caliber players as Tatum, coupled with veterans like James and Durant, bodes well for their medal aspirations.
This opening victory serves as a statement of intent from Team USA, signaling to their rivals that they remain the team to beat. With LeBron James and Kevin Durant leading the way, the road to Olympic gold seems promising for the Americans.