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“The Olympics remain the most compelling search for excellence that exists in sport, and maybe in life itself.” Dawn Fraser

The United States men’s basketball team faced a daunting challenge but ultimately prevailed, securing their place in the gold medal game with a 95-91 victory over Serbia. The Americans found themselves down by as many as 17 points during the game and entered the fourth quarter trailing by 13. However, a remarkable comeback in the final period allowed them to keep their quest for a fourth consecutive gold medal alive.

As the fourth quarter began, the U.S. team quickly narrowed the gap, cutting the deficit to just five points with a little over seven minutes left. Both teams continued to battle, exchanging baskets, but it was Joel Embiid who brought the United States back into the game. His back-to-back buckets brought the U.S. within two points, and a determined layup by LeBron James tied the score at 84 with just over three minutes remaining.

Serbia briefly regained the lead, but Stephen Curry, who had been on fire throughout the game, hit his ninth three-pointer to give the U.S. a one-point advantage. James followed up with a reverse layup to extend the lead to three points, and Curry sealed the deal by going coast-to-coast for another basket, pushing the American lead to 91-86 with just under two minutes left. This critical 14-2 run by the U.S. team turned the game in their favor.

With just 8.2 seconds remaining and the U.S. holding a two-point lead, Curry fittingly knocked down a pair of free throws to secure the win. The Americans outscored Serbia 32-15 in the final quarter, demonstrating their resilience and determination.

Curry finished the game with 36 points, just one point shy of tying Carmelo Anthony’s American record for points in an Olympic game. LeBron James recorded a triple-double with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Embiid contributed 19 points to the effort. Reflecting on the hard-fought victory, James told NBC, “Gotta get it the hard way. Kudos to Serbia, but we came through.”

The U.S. men’s basketball team now advances to the gold medal game, where they will have the opportunity to claim their fourth straight Olympic title.

Quotes

  • “The thrill of victory is not just about winning a medal, but in knowing that you’ve given everything to achieve your dream.”
  • “An Olympic medal is the reward for years of dedication, sacrifice, and an unyielding spirit.” 
  • “The glory of the Olympics is not in the prize, but in the journey, the struggle, and the moment when everything comes together.” 
  • “Winning an Olympic medal is more than a personal achievement; it’s a symbol of hope and inspiration for countless others.”

Key Points:

  • The USA men’s basketball team overcame a 17-point deficit to defeat Serbia 95-91, advancing to their fourth consecutive gold medal game.
  • Trailing by 13 points entering the fourth quarter, the team made a stunning comeback, led by Stephen Curry’s nine three-pointers and LeBron James’ crucial plays.
  • Joel Embiid played a significant role, bringing the team within striking distance before James tied the game and Curry put the USA ahead.
  • Curry finished with 36 points, just one shy of tying Carmelo Anthony’s Olympic record for Team USA, while James recorded a triple-double with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists.
  • The USA outscored Serbia 32-15 in the final quarter, securing their spot in the gold medal game.

Fallon Jacobson – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News