Team USA was more prepared to face the fighting South Sudan after the scare they had during the preparation game that took place in London. The Americans stood firm from start to finish beating the Africans 103-86. Steve Kerr’s team confirmed its place in the quarterfinals while securing the top spot in Group C of the Olympic Basketball Tournament.
Team USA keep South Sudan’s star Carlik Jones under wraps, while Bam Adebayo came off the bench to receive a more active part in the rotation after Kerr’s decision to keep Embiid out. Adebayo had 14 points on 6-of-6 shooting, including two three-pointers in the opening half and finished the game with 18 and 7 rebounds.
Team USA utilized its bench, receiving 64 points from the bench unit and keeping South Sudan down with their huge deposit of talent. Kevin Durant was once again coming in as the sixth man and collected 14 points on a 2-of-5 shooting day, making 8-of-9 shots from the free throw line, while LeBron James did his part with 12 points.
In the other game of the day, Serbia dominated (66-107) Puerto Rico with Nikola Jokic coming close to a historic triple-double. With Serbia leading from start to finish, all eyes were on Nikola Jokic. The Nuggets superstar and 2-times NBA MVP had 10 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists before the half.
The Serbian superstar became the first player in the Olympics history to combine for 10+ PTS, 15+ REB and 5+ AST. Jokic ended the contest with 14 points on 5-of-7 shooting, grabbed 15 rebounds and dished 9 assists in just 23 minutes of play.
Group C schedule and results after Team USA, Serbia victories
Group CÂ Â Â Â Â Â Â Â PD
USA 4Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â +43
Serbia 3Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â +15
South Sudan 3Â Â Â Â -6
Puerto Rico 2Â Â Â Â Â -52
Schedule
28/7 Puerto Rico vs South Sudan 79-90
28/7 USA vs Serbia 110-84
31/7 Puerto Rico vs Serbia 66-107
31/7 USA vs South Sudan 103-86
3/8 18:15 Puerto Rico vs USA
3/8 22:00 Serbia vs South Sudan
