The 2024 Paris Olympics appear to mark the final chapter for two of basketball's greatest icons, LeBron James and Kevin Durant, on the Olympic stage. Both players have indicated that this may be their last appearance in the prestigious international tournament, and if their performance in the Olympic opener is any indication, they are determined to leave a lasting legacy.
Dominant Performance in Olympic Opener
In a resounding 110-84 victory over Serbia, Team USA showcased their firepower and depth, spearheaded by James and Durant. The duo combined for a remarkable 44 points, a testament to their enduring skill and competitive spirit. Their shooting performance was nothing short of stellar, with the pair hitting 17 of their 22 shots.
LeBron James was a force on the court, recording nine assists, eight rebounds, and 21 points. His all-around playmaking was pivotal in maintaining Team USA's dominance throughout the game. Meanwhile, Kevin Durant, who started from the bench, made an immediate impact, helping to turn a tricky six-point deficit in the first quarter into a solid five-point lead by the end of the quarter.
Contributions Across the Roster
It wasn't just the veterans who shined. Devin Booker was on point from beyond the arc, sinking four of his five attempts. Jrue Holiday mirrored this accuracy, converting four of his five three-pointers. Even Stephen Curry, known for his deep shooting, contributed with three successful shots from seven attempts. Anthony Edwards also got in on the act, making two of his three shots from three-point range. The hot shooting night wasn’t limited to the individuals; Team USA collectively shot an impressive 62% from the field and 56% from three-point land.
Serbia's Struggles
On the other side, Serbia, led by the formidable Nikola Jokic, couldn't find a rhythm from three-point range, going just 9-for-37. This disparity in shooting accuracy proved costly, as Serbia struggled to keep pace with the high-tempo, efficient offense of Team USA. Jokic did his best to rally his team, but the night clearly belonged to the Americans.
Dynamic Duo's Historic Night
The first half was particularly dazzling for James and Durant, who together scored 33 points on a flawless 13-for-13 shooting. This dynamic duo’s near-perfect first-half performance was a masterclass in efficiency and skill, leaving fans and analysts alike in awe.
Tatum Sits Out
Interestingly, Jayson Tatum did not see any action in the game. While the reason for Tatum's absence wasn't immediately clear, it underscores the depth and versatility of the American squad that they can dominate even without one of their key players on the floor.
Durant's Legacy Cemented
Durant's contribution to Team USA extends beyond this game. He is the all-time leading scorer for the USA in international play, a testament to his sustained excellence and commitment to representing his country on the global stage. His performance in this opener only adds to his illustrious legacy.
As the games progress, all eyes will be on whether James and Durant can continue their remarkable form and guide Team USA to yet another gold medal. Regardless of the outcome, their contributions have already enriched the narrative of the 2024 Paris Olympics, making it a memorable farewell tour for these basketball legends.