Disappointing Start for U.S. 3x3 Basketball Teams at Paris Olympics
The United States men's and women's 3x3 basketball teams suffered disappointing losses in their opening matches at the 2024 Paris Olympics on Tuesday.
For the women's team, an initial lead wasn’t enough to fend off Germany, resulting in a 17-13 defeat. The U.S. squad, bolstered by talents like Dearica Hamby of the Los Angeles Sparks and Rhyne Howard from the Atlanta Dream, had high hopes coming into the tournament. Hamby’s inclusion followed Cameron Brink’s unfortunate ACL injury. Another key player, Hailey Van Lith, known for her college basketball prowess, teamed up with Cierra Burdick, who currently plays for Valencia in Spain. Despite their strong lineup, it was a tough day on the court.
Reflecting on the game, Cierra Burdick remarked, "I didn't think it was going to be that ugly," encapsulating the team’s surprise and disappointment. Burdick and Van Lith had previously contributed to the U.S. team's success, clinching gold at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup. The team had also triumphed in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, with stellar performances from Stefanie Dolson, Alisha Gray, Kelsea Plum, and Jackie Young, making the unexpected loss in Paris all the more jarring.
On the men's side, the U.S. faced Serbia, the world's number one team in men’s 3x3 basketball. Despite leading much of the first half, the American team succumbed to a 22-14 defeat. The team featured former NBA player Jimmer Fredette, alongside Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox. Fredette, who played six seasons in the NBA, brought experience and skill to the squad. "It's a long tournament for us, and we're excited to get back at it tomorrow," Fredette noted, keeping a positive outlook for their upcoming games.
The Serbian team showcased their dominance, again proving why they hold the world's top ranking. Serbia previously bested the U.S. in the 2023 FIBA World Cup final with a close 21-19 victory and finished the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with a bronze medal.
Both U.S. teams have a rich history in 3x3 basketball. The men’s team secured their place in the Paris Olympics by finishing second in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, demonstrating their competitive edge despite the setback against Serbia.
While the 3x3 teams dealt with their early challenges, there remains hope and determination within the broader U.S. basketball program. The women's 5x5 team boasts a remarkable unbeaten Olympic record since 1992 and is vying for its eighth consecutive gold medal. This prestigious roster features elite players like A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Diana Taurasi, with Taurasi marking her sixth Olympic appearance, a testament to her longevity and skill.
Simultaneously, the men’s 5x5 team has their sights set on claiming a fifth consecutive gold medal, continuing a legacy of dominance on the international stage.
As the tournament progresses, both 3x3 teams will aim to bounce back from their initial setbacks. Their resolve and the enduring spirit of U.S. basketball hold promise for memorable turnarounds in the days to come.