Paris, France – Team USA’s men’s basketball team kicked off their Olympic campaign with a commanding 110-84 victory against Serbia on Sunday. Kevin Durant, making his highly anticipated return after a calf injury, was the star of the show, scoring 23 points, with 21 of those coming in the first half.
Durant, who missed the entirety of Team USA’s exhibition games, made an immediate impact by hitting his first eight shots. “My job was to create space and hit shots, and I’m glad I delivered,” said Durant. Head coach Steve Kerr, who coached Durant at the Golden State Warriors, brought him off the bench and praised his immediate impact: “KD is incredibly skilled and looked in mid-season form right away.”
LeBron James also played a significant role, contributing 21 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds. Reflecting on his return to the Olympics after a 12-year absence, James said, “Hearing our national anthem and the crowd’s cheers brought some butterflies, but it felt phenomenal.”
Even with a formidable showing from Serbia, where Nikola Jokic led with 20 points, Team USA’s superior depth and talent ultimately prevailed. Coach Steve Kerr remarked, “We relied on our team’s depth, and it made a significant difference in the game.” Stephen Curry, making his Olympic debut, added 11 points and emphasized the importance of their strong start: “KD’s performance in the first half was crucial, and our defense in the second half sealed the win.”
Next up for Team USA is a match against South Sudan on Wednesday. With Durant, James, Curry, and other NBA stars in top form, the team aims to continue their dominance and secure their fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal.
Game Highlights:
- Kevin Durant: 23 points (8-of-9 shooting), 21 points in the first half.
- LeBron James: delivered a standout performance with 21 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds.
- Stephen Curry: 11 points in his first Olympic game.
- Nikola Jokic (Serbia): contributed 20 points, grabbed five rebounds, and dished out eight assists.
This victory establishes a strong foundation for Team USA as they progress through the tournament, showcasing their determination to uphold their Olympic legacy in Paris.
Read also – France U23 vs. New Zealand U23 – Who Will Win?
