LeBron James gets the job done against Germany in last Team USA game before Paris
LeBron James gets the job done against Germany in last Team USA game before Paris
LeBron James shines in 4th quarter The match, held in front of the largest crowd to ever watch a basketball game in London, was a true test for the American team. Germany, the reigning FIBA World Cup champions, aimed to make a statement by defeating Team USA just days before the Olympic Games. However, James took control of the game in the closing minutes, much like he has throughout his illustrious career. With Germany holding an 82-81 lead with under four minutes remaining, James scored the United States’ last 11 points on perfect 4-of-4 shooting, securing a 92-88 victory. He finished the game with a team-high 20 points, six rebounds, four assists, a steal, and a block. While the team showed moments of brilliance, they also faced challenges that will need to be addressed before the Olympic competition begins. Joel Embiid was a standout performer, contributing 15 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Stephen Curry added 13 points, while Anthony Davis and Anthony Edwards chipped in with 11 and 10 points, respectively. Overall, the United States shot an impressive 49.28% from the field, while Germany struggled with 35.8% shooting. Germany, known for its excellent team chemistry and strong performances in the World Cup, was led by Franz Wagner of the Orlando Magic, who scored 18 points with seven rebounds, four assists, and three steals. The Germans showcased their ability to move the ball and shoot from beyond the arc, causing problems for the American defense at times. Team USA’s defense, particularly their efforts to limit dribble penetration and force difficult shots, was crucial in the win. Jrue Holiday and Anthony Edwards applied significant pressure on Germany’s guards, leading to several end-of-shot-clock attempts by the opposition. However, Germany capitalized on second-chance opportunities, scoring 16 points off offensive rebounds. The Americans also struggled with turnovers, particularly in a stretch during the third quarter when they committed five turnovers in just four minutes. This allowed Germany to stay competitive despite their poor shooting percentage. Joining the Wilson show, Breanna Stewart chipped in 15 points, six rebounds, five assists, and two steals, while Diana Taurasi, the seasoned vet heading into her sixth Olympics, added five points, two rebounds, and two assists in her 16 minutes. It wasn’t about dazzling shooting percentages (Team USA hit 41.7% from the field), but about smothering defense – the kind that held Germany to a mere 29.4% shooting and forced 17 turnovers. That’s right, 17. And let’s talk transition. Germany might as well have been jogging in quicksand as Team USA raced ahead with 25 fast-break points to Germany’s paltry five. It was like watching a high-speed car chase in a buddy cop movie, only the bad guys never stood a chance. USA Women’s Basketball: An unstoppable force with Paris in their sights Now, let’s take a little trip down memory lane. The USA women’s team hasn’t just been good; they’ve been practically untouchable. We’re talking 55 straight Olympic victories, a streak starting way back in 1996 in Atlanta. Their last Olympic loss? 1992 in Barcelona. Most of the current players were barely out of diapers then. Germany, featuring WNBA talents like Leonie Fiebich and the Sabally sisters, Satou and Nyara, never really had a shot. From the first whistle, USA jumped out to a 22-9 lead and never looked back, maintaining a comfortable cushion all the way to the final buzzer. So, if you’re thinking the USA women might be vulnerable this time around, think again. Paris better be ready because Team USA is coming in hot, and they’ve got gold on their minds.
