Early Stumbles in Paris: U.S. 3x3 Teams Face Opening Defeats
The United States men's and women's 3x3 basketball teams suffered a rocky start in their opening games of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The U.S. women's team, despite demonstrating initial dominance, fell to Germany with a final score of 17-13. The men's team also faced adversity, succumbing to Serbia in a 22-14 defeat.
Women's Team: A Tale of Two Halves
The U.S. women's team began their game with a commanding performance, quickly establishing a 5-0 lead against Germany. However, their momentum waned as Germany mounted a comeback, ultimately claiming the victory. The U.S. roster, featuring talents like Dearica Hamby of the Los Angeles Sparks and Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream, couldn't maintain their early edge.
Dearica Hamby, who joined the team after Cameron Brink suffered a torn ACL, was a crucial addition along with Hailey Van Lith, a rising star in college basketball, and Cierra Burdick, who plies her trade with Valencia in Spain. This trio had previously contributed to the U.S. team's gold medal triumph at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup. Despite their efforts, the team fell short of replicating their success from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where they secured the gold medal with a lineup that included Stefanie Dolson, Alisha Gray, Kelsea Plum, and Jackie Young.
After the game, Cierra Burdick spoke candidly, stating, "I didn't think it was going to be that ugly," reflecting the team's disappointment and determination to bounce back in the following matches.
Men's Team: Battling the Best
The U.S. men's 3x3 team faced a formidable opponent in Serbia, the world's top-ranked team and bronze medalists from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Despite leading for much of the first half, the U.S. team ultimately could not withstand Serbia's relentless pressure, ending the game with a 22-14 scoreline.
Led by Jimmer Fredette, a former NBA player with six seasons to his name, the team also includes Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox. The squad demonstrated promise by securing their spot in Paris by finishing second in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, where they went toe-to-toe with Serbia, narrowly losing 21-19 in the final.
Jimmer Fredette remained upbeat following the loss, emphasizing the team's resilience and future opportunities. "It's a long tournament for us, and we're excited to get back at it tomorrow," Fredette remarked, highlighting the team's forward-looking attitude.
The Bigger Picture
As the 3x3 teams strive to regain their footing, the broader U.S. basketball scene continues to shine. The women's 5x5 team maintains a remarkable unbeaten streak in Olympic play dating back to 1992 and is in pursuit of their eighth consecutive gold medal. The roster brims with talent, featuring A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and the legendary Diana Taurasi, who is competing in her sixth Olympic Games.
On the men's side, the 5x5 team aims for their fifth consecutive gold medal. With such an illustrious history in the sport, the U.S. basketball contingent, both 3x3 and 5x5, carries the weight of immense expectations and the drive to uphold their storied legacy.
The journey at the Paris Olympics has just begun, and while the opening defeats serve as a wake-up call, both U.S. 3x3 teams have ample opportunities to showcase their skills and resilience in the games ahead. The tournament format provides a chance for redemption, and the American squads will no doubt be motivated to turn the tide and drive forward in their quest for Olympic glory.