Two days after a fierce showdown with South Sudan, Team USA returned to the court at the O2 Arena in London, squaring off against a formidable German team. The clash was marked by a thrilling performance from LeBron James, who scored the United States' final 11 points to ensure a hard-fought 92-88 victory.
LeBron James was undeniably the star of the game, ending the night with a team-high 20 points on an impressive 8-for-11 shooting. His all-around contributions included six rebounds and four assists within just 20 minutes of play. Importantly, it was James' poise under pressure that made the difference, as he took control of the game in its final four minutes.
Strong Supporting Cast
While James led the charge, he was well-supported by his teammates. Joel Embiid put up a notable performance, adding 15 points on 5-for-8 shooting, along with eight rebounds, five assists, a steal, and a block over 21 minutes. Stephen Curry also made his presence felt, contributing 13 points and earning a plus-10 rating in his 25 minutes on the floor.
Coach Steve Kerr made a strategic decision to rest Tyrese Haliburton, opting instead to have Derrick White lead the second unit. This approach allowed Kerr to manage his roster effectively while preparing for the crucial games ahead, especially with key player Kevin Durant sidelined with a strained calf.
Tense Moments and Turnarounds
The game was far from straightforward. Germany staged a significant rally, going on a 16-4 run late in the third quarter to cut into Team USA's lead. They took a one-point lead with less than five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
Germany's effort was spearheaded by Franz Wagner, who led his team with 18 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and three steals. His brother, Moe Wagner, chipped in with 12 points and seven rebounds in only 14 minutes of play. Meanwhile, Dennis Schroder facilitated the German attack, dishing out 10 assists.
Despite the German resurgence, LeBron James’ clutch performance in the closing minutes proved too much to overcome. His scoring flurry included critical baskets that sealed the game for Team USA.
Shooting Struggles and Defensive Efforts
Team USA had its struggles from beyond the arc, shooting just 6-for-17 from three-point range. In contrast, the German team attempted 43 three-pointers, converting 13 of them. Despite these shooting woes, Team USA managed to remain solid defensively, mitigating Germany's offensive threats when it mattered most.
This game serves as a crucial tune-up for Team USA as they look ahead to their first game of group play at the 2024 Olympics. They will face Serbia on Sunday at 11:15 a.m. ET, a matchup that promises to be another test of their skill and readiness.
The current Team USA roster, featuring stars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Joel Embiid, appears well-prepared for the challenges ahead. This victory over Germany, who made a semifinal appearance in the FIBA World Cup last September, underscores their capability to perform under pressure.
As the Olympic Games draw closer, Team USA will undoubtedly be looking to build on this performance, refining their strategies and strengthening their cohesion as they aim for gold. The balance between experienced veterans and rising stars will be key to their success in the coming weeks.