LeBron James and Kevin Durant Shine in Likely Final Olympic Appearance
The 2024 Paris Olympics may mark the last time basketball legends LeBron James and Kevin Durant don the Team USA jersey, and if their opening game performance is any indication, they plan to go out with a bang. Facing Serbia in their first match, James and Durant combined for a stellar 44 points on 17-of-22 shooting, leading Team USA to a commanding 110-84 victory.
James demonstrated his all-around game by recording nine assists, eight rebounds, and dropping 21 points. The veteran forward's court vision and unselfish play helped orchestrate a dominant offensive performance from the Americans. Meanwhile, Durant, coming off the bench, was pivotal in reversing a worrisome start. Team USA had been trailing by six points in the first quarter, but Durant's contributions turned the tide, converting a deficit into a five-point lead by the end of the quarter.
Durant, who holds the title of the all-time leading scorer for the USA in international play, proved his mettle once again. His first-half performance was remarkably efficient; he and James combined for 33 points on a perfect 13-for-13 shooting, setting the tone for an offensive clinic where the team collectively shot 62% from the field and 56% from the three-point line.
Three-Point Barrage
The sharpshooting display didn’t end with the star duo. Devin Booker was on fire from beyond the arc, knocking down 4 out of his 5 attempts. Jrue Holiday also found his range, making four of his five three-point attempts, while Stephen Curry and Anthony Edwards contributed solidly with Curry hitting 3 of his 7 and Edwards sinking 2 of his 3 shots from long distance. This three-point assault overwhelmed Serbia, who struggled mightily from deep, going just 9-for-37 from three-point range.
Anthony Edwards, known for his athletic prowess and explosive scoring, added to the depth of Team USA's roster. The balanced offensive output from both the veterans and younger players bodes well for the team's chances as they progress through the tournament. Jayson Tatum, another key player, did not see action in the game, suggesting that Team USA has even more firepower waiting to be unleashed in future matches.
Nikola Jokic Leads Serbia
On the other side of the court, Serbia was led by their own star, Nikola Jokic. The reigning NBA MVP put up a valiant effort, but it wasn’t enough to contend with the cohesive and efficient play of the American squad. Jokic’s leadership and skill were evident, but Serbia’s subpar shooting performance, especially from three-point range, ultimately sealed their fate in the opener.
Looking Ahead
As the tournament progresses, the spotlight will remain on James and Durant, two of basketball’s most iconic figures, as they likely cap off their international careers. Their leadership and experience are invaluable assets for a team blending seasoned stars with emerging talent. With an impressive opening game display, Team USA has set a high standard for the competition.
Whether or not 2024 serves as a farewell tour for James and Durant, their impact on international basketball and their contributions to Team USA's legacy are undeniable. The Paris Olympics offer a grand stage for these legends to underscore their greatness one final time. The world will be watching, and if game one is any indication, they’re in for a memorable show.