On Tuesday, the United States men's and women's 3x3 basketball teams experienced disappointing starts to their campaigns at the 2024 Paris Olympics, both suffering defeats in their opening matches.
Women's Team Stumbles Against Germany
The U.S. women's 3x3 basketball team, which had shown strong promise by taking a 5-0 lead early in their game against Germany, ultimately faltered. The team succumbed to a spirited comeback from Germany, losing 17-13. The setback highlighted the competitive nature of the tournament and the challenges the U.S. team must overcome to replicate their success in previous international contests.
Dearica Hamby, a key player for the Los Angeles Sparks, joined the team after Cameron Brink sustained a torn ACL, while Rhyne Howard from the Atlanta Dream and Hailey Van Lith, a star in college basketball, rounded out the roster alongside Cierra Burdick, who plays professionally for Valencia in Spain. Burdick, reflecting on the defeat, candidly admitted, "I didn't think it was going to be that ugly."
The U.S. women's 3x3 team had enjoyed a gold-laden history, notably winning the gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with a roster featuring Stefanie Dolson, Alisha Gray, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young. In the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup, Burdick and Van Lith were pivotal players in securing the gold. The high expectations placed on the team following these triumphs underscore the significance of their early stumble in Paris.
Serbia Shines Past Men's Team
In parallel, the U.S. men's 3x3 basketball team faced a formidable Serbian side, recognized as the world's number one team in men's 3x3 basketball. Despite leading for much of the first half, the U.S. men were overpowered, ultimately falling 22-14 to Serbia. This defeat marked another blow for the U.S. squads, reaffirming Serbia's dominance in the sport.
The U.S. men's 3x3 team, consisting of Jimmer Fredette, known for his six-season tenure in the NBA, along with Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox, had earned their place in the Paris Olympics by finishing second in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. The loss against Serbia rekindled memories of their narrow defeat in the final of the same World Cup, where Serbia edged them out 21-19. Reflecting on the game, Fredette commented, "It's a long tournament for us, and we're excited to get back at it tomorrow."
Serbia’s bronze medal finish at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics added to their credibility, and their victory over the U.S. further cements their status as contenders for the gold in Paris.
Historic Streaks and Gold Medal Hopes
Beyond the 3x3 courts, the U.S. women's 5x5 basketball team carries an unparalleled legacy into the Paris Games. Remarkably, they have not lost an Olympic game since 1992, an unbeatable streak reflective of their dominance. Aiming for their eighth consecutive gold medal, the team’s roster is loaded with talent, including A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Diana Taurasi, who is competing in her sixth Olympic Games—a testament to her enduring skill and leadership.
Meanwhile, the U.S. men's 5x5 basketball team also targets continued success, seeking their fifth consecutive Olympic gold. Their performance will be closely watched as part of the broader narrative of U.S. basketball prowess at the global stage.
As the 2024 Paris Olympics continue, the U.S. 3x3 teams have a clear task ahead. With early setbacks providing a harsh wake-up call, both squads will need to muster determination and tactical finesse to navigate the challenging tournament landscape. For the women’s team, returning to their gold-medal form will be crucial, while the men’s team will look to overcome the formidable Serbian obstacle that has twice stood in their way.