U.S. Men’s Basketball Team Wraps Up Exhibition Games With Unbeaten Record but Faces Challenges

The U.S. men’s basketball team concluded its pre-Olympic exhibition games with an undefeated 5-0 record, but their performances revealed potential vulnerabilities as they prepare for the Paris 2024 Games. While victories over Canada, Spain, and Australia demonstrated their dominance, hard-fought wins against South Sudan and Germany exposed defensive weaknesses that could be problematic against elite international competition.

LeBron James, making his return to Team USA for the first time since 2012, played a crucial role in stabilizing the team during difficult stretches. Kevin Durant, the team’s all-time Olympic scoring leader, continued his strong play, averaging 18 points per game in the exhibitions. However, defensive lapses, particularly in transition, allowed both South Sudan and Germany to take early leads, forcing Team USA into comeback situations.

Against Germany, the U.S. trailed by double digits in the third quarter before Jayson Tatum and Anthony Edwards sparked a late rally. “We have to clean up our defense,” head coach Steve Kerr admitted. “These international teams move the ball well, and we can’t afford slow starts.”

One of the biggest concerns heading into the Olympics is the team’s chemistry. With a roster composed of NBA superstars who are used to being primary scoring options, adjusting to a system where ball movement and role-playing are essential has been an ongoing challenge.

Despite these concerns, Team USA remains the overwhelming favorite for gold. Their combination of star power, experience, and talent remains unmatched. However, with teams like France, Australia, and Canada boasting deep rosters, the U.S. cannot afford to be complacent.

The exhibition schedule has given the coaching staff valuable insight into areas that need improvement, and the final days of practice before the tournament will be critical. The team’s first Olympic matchup will be against Serbia, a squad featuring reigning NBA MVP Nikola Jokić, providing an immediate test for Team USA’s frontcourt defense.