Nikola Jokic spearheaded Serbia's thrilling 95-90 overtime triumph over Australia to secure their place in the semifinals of the 2024 Olympic basketball tournament. The match, held in the quarterfinal stages, saw Jokic deliver a stellar performance that included 24 points, 14 rebounds, eight assists, and four steals.
Historic Comeback
The game will be remembered for Serbia's historic comeback from a 24-point deficit, the largest in Olympic basketball history. Jokic's all-around excellence was crucial in this monumental turnaround. With Serbia's dreams of Olympic glory hanging in the balance, Jokic played a pivotal role on both ends of the court, particularly in the critical overtime period.
Overtime Heroics
In the overtime session, Jokic's contributions were nothing short of extraordinary. He added four points, two steals, two rebounds, one assist, and one block to his already impressive stat line. His defensive prowess was on full display as he delivered two game-changing blocks. The first came against Patty Mills, whose layup attempt was thwarted — a play legal in international play but would have been deemed goaltending in the NBA. The second block against Josh Giddey was equally crucial, underscoring Jokic's defensive tenacity.
Offensively, Jokic's impact was just as significant. He tied the game with a jump hook and later scored an essential one-foot fallaway jumper that gave Serbia a lead they would not relinquish. Moreover, his vision and playmaking ability came to the fore when he orchestrated a drive-and-kick play that set up Ognjen Dobric for a crucial three-pointer in overtime.
Crucial Moments
One of the game's defining moments occurred when Jokic stole the ball from Mills following a critical turnover in the dying moments of regulation, ensuring that Serbia stayed in contention. Jokic's knack for being at the right place at the right time was evident once again when he grabbed a crucial rebound off a Jack McVeigh miss in the final minute of overtime, sealing Australia's fate.
Aussie Challenge
Despite the loss, Australia fought valiantly, with Patty Mills and Josh Giddey combining for 51 points. Mills, in particular, delivered a memorable performance, hitting a fadeaway jumper to tie the game at the end of regulation. Nevertheless, Serbia's resilience and Jokic's leadership proved to be insurmountable obstacles for the Australian team.
Path Forward
With the win, Serbia guarantees themselves a spot in at least the bronze-medal game. They now await the winner of the USA vs. Brazil matchup in the semifinals, where another opportunity to showcase their tenacity and skill awaits them. Jokic, who has won three of the last four NBA MVP awards, continues to bolster his legacy with performances that elevate the play of his entire team.
Serbia's remarkable victory serves as a testament to their resilience and the incredible influence of Nikola Jokic. As the tournament progresses, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching to see if Jokic can lead Serbia to an even higher podium finish.