The USA men's basketball team showcased their resilience and veteran prowess in a thrilling semifinal match against Serbia at the 2024 Olympics, culminating in a 95-91 victory. This win secures their spot in the gold medal game against France, leaving fans and analysts alike buzzing with anticipation.
Heroic Fourth Quarter
Trailing by 17 points at one stage and down by 13 points entering the final quarter, the USA was up against formidable odds. Serbia had dominated for more than 35 of the 40 minutes, thanks to the sharp shooting of Aleksa Avramovic, Bogdan Bogdanovic, and Ognjen Dobric, as well as the playmaking brilliance of Nikola Jokic, who recorded 17 points and a game-high 11 assists.
However, the USA team, under the strategic leadership of Coach Steve Kerr, mounted a remarkable comeback. Kerr, who had largely employed a deep rotation throughout the Olympics, turned to his experienced veterans when it mattered most. "Having spent most of the Olympics playing a deep rotation, U.S. coach Steve Kerr relied heavily on his veterans with the game on the line," an analyst observed. This tactical shift paid off handsomely.
Veteran Leadership
The star-studded lineup of Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Joel Embiid, and Devin Booker proved their mettle in the critical closing stages. Stephen Curry was phenomenal, sinking nine 3-pointers and contributing a game-high 36 points. This feat etched his name in the record books, as he now holds the second-most 3-pointers by a U.S. men's basketball player in the Olympics.
LeBron James was equally pivotal. Playing the entire fourth quarter, James recorded his second career Olympic triple-double with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists. "James, meanwhile, was everywhere down the stretch. Playing the entire fourth quarter, he had six points, six rebounds, and four assists and finished with his second career Olympics triple-double: 16 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists," recounted a commentator.
Defensive Prowess
While the offensive heroics were critical, the USA's defense during the final period was nothing short of spectacular. They outscored Serbia 32-15 in the fourth quarter and crucially, Serbia missed all nine of their 3-point attempts in this decisive phase. Coach Steve Kerr made only one substitution in the fourth quarter, bringing in Joel Embiid for Anthony Davis, maintaining stability and focus throughout the period.
It wasn't just the star players who contributed to this victory; the tactical decisions made by Kerr were equally vital. Derrick White, who played for 6:46 minutes, saw the USA being outscored by 16 points during his time on the court, illustrating the difference veteran presence made.
Looking Ahead
With the victory over Serbia, the USA sets its sights on France for the gold medal game. The narrowly contested semifinal has not only highlighted the tactical acumen of Steve Kerr and the resilience of the players but has also set the stage for a much-anticipated clash. The blend of seasoned superstars in Curry, James, Durant, Embiid, and Booker exudes confidence and experience — qualities that will be indispensable against an equally formidable French side.
In conclusion, the semifinal victory against Serbia exemplified a masterclass in basketball, from the tactical shifts by Coach Kerr to the unmatched determination and skill of the veteran players. As the USA prepares for the gold medal game, the story of their comeback against Serbia will serve as both an inspiration and a blueprint for achieving Olympic glory.