In a dominant display, Stephen Curry led the U.S. men’s basketball team to a 105-79 victory over Serbia in an Olympic warmup game. Curry scored a team-high 24 points, showcasing his offensive prowess and setting the tone for the match. This win marks the U.S. team’s third consecutive victory in their five-game exhibition series ahead of the Paris Olympics. The game, held in Abu Dhabi, highlighted the team’s depth and defensive strength, with contributions from key players like Bam Adebayo and Anthony Davis.
Stephen Curry’s performance was a standout in the U.S. team’s victory over Serbia. After a relatively quiet start in the first two exhibition games, Curry came out strong, scoring the first nine points for the U.S. His early scoring spree set the pace for the game and energized his teammates. Curry’s ability to hit shots from beyond the arc and drive to the basket kept the Serbian defense on its heels.
Curry’s 24 points were complemented by his playmaking abilities, as he facilitated ball movement and created opportunities for his teammates. His performance was a testament to his leadership and experience, crucial for the U.S. team’s success in the upcoming Olympics. LeBron James, who added 11 points, praised Curry’s impact, noting that his early scoring opened up the game for the rest of the team.
The U.S. team’s strategy to involve Curry early paid off, as his confidence and rhythm translated into a dominant offensive display. Coach Steve Kerr emphasized the importance of Curry’s role, highlighting his ability to change the game’s dynamics with his shooting and court vision.
Defensive Dominance
While Curry’s offensive performance was impressive, the U.S. team’s defensive efforts were equally noteworthy. Bam Adebayo and Anthony Davis anchored the defense, combining for 14 rebounds and multiple blocks. Their presence in the paint disrupted Serbia’s offensive flow and limited their scoring opportunities. Davis, in particular, showcased his versatility, contributing seven points, six rebounds, and six blocks.
The U.S. team’s defensive strategy focused on applying pressure and forcing turnovers. This approach led to a 16-2 run in the second quarter, allowing the U.S. to build a substantial lead. The team’s depth was evident, with players like Anthony Edwards and Tyrese Haliburton providing valuable minutes off the bench. Edwards scored 16 points, adding to the team’s balanced scoring attack.
Coach Kerr praised the team’s defensive intensity, noting that their ability to switch and protect the rim would be vital in the Olympics. The U.S. held Serbia to just 41% shooting from the field, showcasing their defensive prowess and setting a high standard for future games.
Preparing for the Olympics
The victory over Serbia is a positive sign for the U.S. team as they prepare for the Paris Olympics. With three wins in their exhibition series, the team is building momentum and confidence. The upcoming games against South Sudan and Germany in London will provide further opportunities to fine-tune their strategies and rotations.
The U.S. team’s depth and versatility are key strengths, allowing them to adapt to different opponents and game situations. The combination of experienced veterans like Curry and James, along with young talents like Edwards, creates a dynamic and formidable roster. The team’s ability to play intense defense and execute offensively will be crucial in their quest for Olympic gold.
As the Olympics approach, the U.S. team is focused on maintaining their high level of play and addressing any areas for improvement. The exhibition games serve as valuable preparation, helping the team to gel and develop chemistry. With Curry leading the way, the U.S. men’s basketball team is poised for a strong showing in Paris.
