On a challenging Tuesday at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the United States men's and women's 3x3 basketball teams experienced disappointing starts. Both teams faced defeats in their opening games, setting a tough tone for the tournament ahead.
U.S. Women’s 3x3 Basketball Team Falters
The U.S. women's team started strong, leading Germany 5-0. However, the early advantage slipped through their fingers as Germany turned the game around, ultimately handing the Americans a 17-13 defeat. Despite the initial momentum, the U.S. team couldn't maintain their lead, with Germany securing a hard-fought victory. "I didn't think it was going to be that ugly," admitted Cierra Burdick, reflecting the team's shock and disappointment.
Dearica Hamby, who stars for the Los Angeles Sparks, joined the U.S. squad after Cameron Brink suffered a torn ACL. Alongside Hamby, standout players like Rhyne Howard from the Atlanta Dream, college basketball sensation Hailey Van Lith, and Cierra Burdick, who plays for Valencia in Spain, represent the team's talents. Notably, both Van Lith and Burdick were instrumental in leading the team to gold at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup.
The U.S. women's 3x3 team, which captured gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, now faces an uphill battle to reclaim their former glory. The Tokyo team's roster boasted talents such as Stefanie Dolson, Alisha Gray, Kelsea Plum, and Jackie Young, setting high expectations for the current squad.
U.S. Men’s 3x3 Team Overwhelmed by Serbia
The U.S. men's 3x3 team faced a formidable opponent in Serbia, the world's No. 1 team in men's 3x3 basketball. Despite holding a lead for much of the first half, the Americans succumbed to a 22-14 defeat. Serbia's strength and precision were evident, building on their impressive basketball pedigree, which includes a bronze medal from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a victory over the U.S. in the 2023 FIBA World Cup final with a score of 21-19.
Comprising Jimmer Fredette, a former NBA player, Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox, the U.S. men's team entered the Paris Olympics with high hopes, having qualified by finishing second in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Fredette, reflecting on the loss, remained optimistic: "It's a long tournament for us, and we're excited to get back at it tomorrow."
Legacy of U.S. Basketball Teams
While the 3x3 teams face uncertainties, the legacy of the U.S. women's 5x5 basketball team remains stellar. Undefeated in Olympic play since 1992, they are aiming for their eighth consecutive gold medal. The current roster, featuring stars like A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and the legendary Diana Taurasi, is poised to continue its dominance. Taurasi, competing in her sixth Olympic Games, epitomizes the experience and skill that define this team.
On the men's side, the U.S. 5x5 basketball team is in pursuit of its fifth consecutive gold medal. This continuous run of excellence showcases the depth and talent that American basketball brings to the global stage.
As the 2024 Paris Olympics progress, both U.S. 3x3 teams will need to regroup and focus on the challenges ahead. The journey for both squads is far from over, and their resilience will be tested as they strive for redemption in upcoming games.