On a challenging Tuesday at the 2024 Paris Olympics, both the United States men's and women's 3x3 basketball teams experienced setbacks in their opening matches. The anticipation was high, but the results fell short for the U.S. teams, who faced formidable opponents on the global stage.
Women's 3x3 Team's Tough Start
The U.S. women's 3x3 team initially showed promise in their match against Germany, jumping to an early 5-0 lead. However, the momentum shifted, and Germany clawed their way back to secure a 17-13 victory. The U.S. team, featuring stars like Dearica Hamby of the Los Angeles Sparks and Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream, couldn't hold their early advantage. Hamby joined the team following a devastating injury to Cameron Brink, who tore her ACL prior to the Olympics.
Among the highlights, Hailey Van Lith, a notable college basketball player, and Cierra Burdick, playing professionally in Spain for Valencia, were key contributors. Their prowess was instrumental in the team's gold medal at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup. This loss against Germany contrasts sharply with their success in Tokyo 2020, where the U.S. women's 3x3 team clinched the gold medal with a roster that included Stefanie Dolson, Alisha Gray, Kelsea Plum, and Jackie Young.
"I didn't think it was going to be that ugly," remarked Cierra Burdick, encapsulating the team's sentiments after the unexpected loss.
Men's 3x3 Team Overcome by Serbia
In the men's 3x3 competition, the U.S. faced an uphill battle against the world's number one team, Serbia. Despite a strong start and leading for much of the first half, the U.S. team ended up with a 22-14 defeat. The Serbian team, known for their strength and tactical prowess, boasts a commendable record, finishing with a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and having recently defeated the U.S. in the 2023 FIBA World Cup final with a narrow score of 21-19.
The U.S. men's team, consisting of Jimmer Fredette, Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox, brought a mix of NBA experience and international expertise. Jimmer Fredette's tenure in the NBA spans six seasons, adding significant depth to the team's profile. Their journey to Paris was marked by resilience and skill, having qualified by finishing second in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
"It's a long tournament for us, and we're excited to get back at it tomorrow," said Jimmer Fredette, emphasizing the team's readiness to bounce back from the initial setback and make their mark as the tournament progresses.
Dominance in 5x5 Basketball Continues
In a stark contrast to the 3x3 format, the U.S. women's 5x5 basketball team remains an almost untouchable force, not having lost an Olympic game since 1992. As they aim for their eighth consecutive gold medal, the roster features basketball luminaries such as A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and the indomitable Diana Taurasi, who is competing in her remarkable sixth Olympic Games.
Similarly, the U.S. men's 5x5 basketball team is on a quest for their fifth consecutive gold medal, showcasing the enduring dominance of U.S. basketball in the traditional 5x5 format.
The opening losses in 3x3 have undoubtedly posed challenges for the U.S. teams in Paris, but the spirit and determination of the players suggest that they are ready to rise above these initial hurdles. With a long tournament ahead, both the men's and women's 3x3 teams have ample opportunity to turn their fortunes around and make a significant impact on the Olympic stage.