The US men’s basketball team, dubbed the new ‘Dream Team’, launched their Paris 2024 Olympics campaign with a resounding 110-84 victory over Serbia at the Pierre-Mauroy stadium in Lille. Kevin Durant, returning from a calf strain that sidelined him during exhibition games, led the charge with a game-high 23 points on perfect 8-for-8 shooting, including 5-for-5 from beyond the arc. LeBron James complemented Durant’s scoring with an all-around performance of 21 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds.The American firepower was on full display as the team shot an impressive 62% from the 3-point line, outscoring Serbia 54-27 from long range. Head coach Steve Kerr praised James’ impact, stating, ‘LeBron puts his imprint on the game in so many different ways’. James himself expressed excitement about the Olympic atmosphere, saying, ‘It was phenomenal, listening to our national anthem, listening to the fans cheer, definitely got a little nervous, my stomach, the butterflies came out’.Serbia’s NBA MVP Nikola Jokic led his team with 20 points, but it wasn’t enough to keep pace with the dominant US squad. The American team’s depth was evident, with strong contributions from Anthony Edwards, Jrue Holiday, Devin Booker, and Stephen Curry. Notably, recent NBA champion Jayson Tatum didn’t play, with Coach Kerr explaining the decision as a way to give Durant more playing time.This victory improves the US team’s record to 6-0 this summer and 1-0 in the Olympic tournament. The team, seeking its 17th Olympic gold medal and fifth consecutive, will face South Sudan in their next group stage match. As the tournament progresses, the US ‘Dream Team’ has set a high bar, showcasing their potential to dominate on their quest for gold in Paris.
Key points
- The US men’s basketball team defeated Serbia 110-84 in their Olympic opener.
- Kevin Durant led the team with 23 points on perfect 8-for-8 shooting, including 5-for-5 from three-point range.
- LeBron James contributed 21 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds in an all-around performance.
- The US team is seeking its 17th Olympic gold medal and fifth consecutive title.
Contradictions👾There are minor discrepancies in the reported statistics for LeBron James, with some sources citing seven rebounds and others eight rebounds.
