{"id":1716,"date":"2024-07-29T14:33:50","date_gmt":"2024-07-29T09:03:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hoverstud.io\/?p=1716"},"modified":"2024-07-29T14:34:20","modified_gmt":"2024-07-29T09:04:20","slug":"unstoppable-kd-and-almost-triple-double-lebron-usa-dominates-serbia-for-first-win","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hoverstud.io\/unstoppable-kd-and-almost-triple-double-lebron-usa-dominates-serbia-for-first-win\/","title":{"rendered":"Unstoppable KD and Almost Triple-Double LeBron! USA Dominates Serbia for First Win"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The U.S. men’s basketball team<\/strong><\/a> began their journey to win five consecutive titles at the Paris Olympics. Their performance was outstanding. With the return of “Reaper” Kevin Durant, who came off the bench to score 23 points, and LeBron James’ all-round performance, the United States defeated the Serbian team led by Nikola Jokic 110-84.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Pre-Olympic warm-up dominance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The United States enters the Olympics undefeated in five warm-up games, including a stunning victory over Serbia. What’s impressive is that these wins came without the help of Durant, who was sidelined with a calf strain. However, his return makes this already strong team nearly unbeatable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Durant’s record-breaking pursuit<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Kevin Durant, 35, is a three-time Olympic gold medalist and Team USA’s all-time leading scorer. This year, he aims to become the first men’s basketball player to win four Olympic gold medals. Despite missing training camp and all warm-up games in Las Vegas, Durant showed no signs of rust. He came on as a substitute and made an immediate impact, scoring 21 points in the first half alone and shooting a perfect 8-for-8 from the field.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

LeBron’s all-around performance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

LeBron James, known as the “King”, contributed 21 points, 9 assists and 8 rebounds, almost getting a triple-double. His leadership and versatility were on full display, helping the team overcome an early deficit to lead Serbia 58-49 at halftime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

climax of second half<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In the second half, the U.S. team’s defense tightened and suppressed the Serbian team’s offense. The lead expanded to more than 20 points in the fourth quarter, sealing the victory. Durant continued to be efficient, scoring 23 points on 8-of-9 shooting, while James’ near triple-double performance highlighted his importance to the team. Jokic’s performance of 20 points, eight assists and five rebounds was commendable, but it was not enough against the ruthless American team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Group stage and beyond<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. team was placed in a group with Serbia, South Sudan and Puerto Rico in the preliminary round. After defeating Serbia, they will face South Sudan and Puerto Rico, aiming to sweep through and advance to the quarterfinals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Insights from the game<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Durant’s return changed the game. His scoring efficiency and ability to take over games is unparalleled. LeBron’s leadership and all-around game provide the necessary support to make Team USA a balanced and dangerous team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coach’s Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Team USA head coach Steve Kerr praised the team’s resilience and highlighted Durant’s stellar return. “Having Durant back is like putting a turbocharger on a sports car. He makes everything easier for everyone,” Kerr said. He also acknowledged LeBron’s role, “LeBron is our anchor. His experience and versatility are priceless.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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