In a closely contested tune-up game ahead of the Olympic Games Paris 2024, LeBron James once again led Team USA’s men’s basketball team to a 92-88 victory over the 2023 FIBA World Cup champions, Germany. The game took place on Monday, July 22, at the O2 Arena in London.
LeBron James, the oldest member of Team USA, was the leading scorer for his country, contributing 20 points on an efficient 8-11 shooting from the field. His performance included several clutch baskets that proved crucial in securing the win. Joel Embiid also made a significant impact, adding 15 points. Germany was led by Franz Wagner, who scored 18 points, and Andreas Obst, who added 15 points.
Team USA, aiming for its fifth consecutive men’s basketball gold medal at the Olympics, remained undefeated in their five tune-up games despite facing strong competition. Their performance against Germany highlighted their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
**Team USA Holds Off Experienced German Squad**
Starting for Team USA were Stephen Curry, Jrue Holiday, Devin Booker, LeBron James, and Joel Embiid. This marked the third time this lineup had been used in the tune-up series. Although Kevin Durant did not participate in the warm-up games due to a calf strain, there is optimism that he will return for the Paris games.
From the opening tip, Team USA displayed improved cohesion. LeBron James set the tone early with a reverse dunk off a precise pass from Embiid, scoring the first points of the game. Team USA shot an impressive 58.8% from the field in the first quarter while their ddefenceheld Germany to 30.4% shooting, highlighted by a spectacular block from Anthony Davis.
Germany managed to fight back in the second quarter as Team USA’s offence slowed. However, the United States responded with a strong push before halftime, featuring a remarkable sequence where Embiid blocked an Isaac Bonga dunk attempt, and Anthony Edwards finished with a right-handed dunk in transition. Team USA led by seven points at halftime.
The third quarter saw Team USA’s offensive inconsistencies resurface, allowing Germany to chip away at their lead with tight defence and effective shooting. Germany took a three-point lead entering the fourth quarter, thanks to key three-pointers by Obst and Wagner.
In the final quarter, both teams exchanged the lead multiple times. Team USA briefly pulled ahead following a behind-the-back pass from Curry to Booker, who converted an and-one layup. LeBron James then made crucial plays in the closing minutes, including a right-wing three-pointer, a contested layup, and several free throws to secure the victory. His stellar performance came shortly after the announcement that he would be the United States’ male flagbearer at the Paris 2024 opening ceremony.
Team USA now heads to Paris with an undefeated record in their tune-up games. They will begin group play against Nikola Jokic and Serbia on July 28, seeking to continue their winning streak and defend their gold medal.
