U.S. 3x3 Basketball Teams Face Opening Losses at Paris Olympics
The United States men's and women's 3x3 basketball teams had a challenging start to their campaigns in the 2024 Paris Olympics, both suffering defeats in their opening matches on Tuesday. The women's team fell to Germany 17-13, while the men's team was overcome by Serbia, with a score of 22-14.
The U.S. women's team initially took command of their game, jumping out to a 5-0 lead against Germany. However, Germany managed to rally back, ultimately securing a 17-13 victory. The women's squad featured several notable players, including Dearica Hamby of the Los Angeles Sparks, who joined the team following Cameron Brink's untimely ACL tear. Other prominent players include Rhyne Howard from the Atlanta Dream, Hailey Van Lith, who currently plays college basketball, and Cierra Burdick, who plays professionally in Spain for Valencia.
Cierra Burdick and Hailey Van Lith were instrumental in the U.S. team's gold medal victory at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup. Despite their pedigree, the loss to Germany highlighted the unpredictable nature of the fast-paced 3x3 format. Reflecting on the game, Burdick commented, "I didn't think it was going to be that ugly," summing up the disappointment felt by the squad.
The U.S. women's 3x3 team has a strong legacy, having clinched the gold medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. That championship team included Stefanie Dolson, Alisha Gray, Kelsea Plum, and Jackie Young. This year's team may take solace in the fact that the tournament is still young and offers ample opportunity for redemption.
The men's team faced a formidable opponent in Serbia, the world's No. 1 ranked team in men’s 3x3 basketball. Despite leading for much of the first half, the U.S. could not hold off Serbia, ultimately losing 22-14. Serbia, which took home a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and defeated the U.S. in the 2023 FIBA World Cup final with a close 21-19 score, proved too strong.
The U.S. men's team featured Jimmer Fredette, who brought experience from his six seasons in the NBA, Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox. The team secured their spot in the Paris Olympics by finishing second in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Reflecting on the loss, Fredette remained upbeat. "It's a long tournament for us, and we're excited to get back at it tomorrow," he said, emphasizing the team's focus on the games ahead.
While the 3x3 teams grapple with early setbacks, the U.S. women's 5x5 basketball team continues to be a dominant force on the Olympic stage. Remarkably, they have not lost an Olympic game since 1992 and are currently aiming for their eighth consecutive gold medal. The roster boasts luminaries such as A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Diana Taurasi, who is competing in her sixth Olympic Games, underscoring the depth of experience and talent.
On the men's side, the U.S. 5x5 basketball team is also chasing glory, seeking their fifth consecutive gold medal. Their history of success and the caliber of players involved suggest a strong chance of adding another chapter to their storied legacy.
The early losses for the U.S. 3x3 basketball teams are a reminder of the fierce competition and unpredictability inherent in Olympic sports. However, with the resilience and talent present in both squads, fans and players alike remain hopeful for a turnaround in the games to come.