By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Team USA’s ultimate goal of clinching its fifth straight gold medal in the Olympics is still alive after dominating South Sudan, 103-86, and secured a quarterfinal spot in the ongoing Paris Olympics on August 1, 2024.
After a narrow one-point victory during their exhibition matchup, the Americans showed the way in the game that counted and mattered and adjusted well against the dark horse of the tournament.
Bam Adebayo was in his A-game against South Sudan and led Team USA with an all-around efficient performance of 18 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks.
The Miami Heat two-way center set the tone and steered Team USA to a consistent outing midway through the first quarter until the end of the half.
With South Sudan still within striking distance in the early phase of the opening frame, Adebayo’s presence changed the complexion of the game and steered Team USA to a double-digit lead heading into the second quarter.
After that, the Americans never looked back, capping off its second game in Paris with yet another masterclass to top Group C in the Olympic group stage.
Aside from Adebayo’s clinic, Team USA also banked on its balanced offensive attack, with five other players reaching the double-digit mark in the scoring department.
Kevin Durant continued his waxing hot shooting in the most prestigious global games and dropped 14 markers on a limited playing time while Anthony Edwards chipped in 13 markers.
Meanwhile, the trio of LeBron James, Devin Booker, and Derrick White contributed 12, 10, and 10 points, respectively.
In the upcoming quarterfinals, Team USA will be facing the tough and defensive-oriented Puerto Rican national basketball team led by New Orleans Pelicans point guard Jose Alvarado.
