USA vs. Serbia: Key Insights from the Thrilling 2024 Olympic Basketball Semifinal

The 2024 Olympic basketball semifinal between the USA and Serbia was nothing short of a nail-biter. The USA men’s basketball team, brimming with stars, faced a formidable challenge from Serbia and its MVP sensation Nikola Jokic. Despite trailing by 17 points and entering the final quarter down by 13, Team USA surged back with an electrifying performance to win 95-91. Here’s a closer look at the crucial takeaways from this exhilarating match.

Serbia’s New Threat Level

Serbia’s Enhanced Performance

This semifinal clash was the third meeting between Team USA and Serbia in the summer of 2024. The USA had previously dominated both encounters—a friendly match in Abu Dhabi and the group stage opener—with scores of 105-79 and 110-84, respectively. However, Serbia showcased a significantly improved performance this time around.

The Serbian squad, led by sharpshooters Aleksa Avramovic, Bogdan Bogdanovic, and Ognjen Dobric, excelled beyond the arc. Serbia made five three-pointers in each of the first three quarters, a stark contrast to their dismal 27% shooting in earlier games against the USA. This sharp shooting helped them build a double-digit lead and put the Americans on the back foot.

Nikola Jokic’s Dominance

The Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic played nearly the entire game, contributing 17 points and a game-high 11 assists. His presence was a game-changer; Serbia managed to maintain and extend its lead while Jokic was on the court. The strategic reliance on Jokic was evident, and it highlighted Serbia’s upgraded game plan compared to their previous matchups.

Team USA’s Veteran Leadership

Veteran Lineup Powers Through

U.S. coach Steve Kerr turned to his experienced players when the game was on the line. In a critical fourth quarter, Kerr’s only substitution was Joel Embiid for Anthony Davis. This decision left Team USA with a formidable lineup of four MVPs: Curry, Embiid, Kevin Durant, and LeBron James, alongside the younger Devin Booker.

This veteran squad turned the game around with their defensive prowess. Serbia went 0-for-9 from three-point range in the fourth quarter, and their scoring was limited to just 15 points. The defensive lockdown allowed Team USA to capitalize on transition opportunities, including a crucial steal and score by Curry.

With 36 points in the win over Serbia, Stephen Curry surpassed his point total in his previous four Olympics games combined. Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images

LeBron James Shines

LeBron James was a force to be reckoned with in the final quarter. He played the entire period, accumulating 6 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. His all-around performance culminated in his second Olympic triple-double, making him the first men’s basketball player to achieve this feat twice. His contributions were vital to securing the win and advancing to the gold medal game.

Stephen Curry’s Stellar Performance

Curry’s Breakthrough Game

Stephen Curry delivered an unforgettable performance, scoring 36 points—just one shy of the American Olympic record held by Carmelo Anthony. Curry’s shooting was instrumental in keeping the USA in the game, especially early on when he scored 14 of the USA’s first 15 points. His nine three-pointers were the second most by a U.S. player in Olympic history, only behind Anthony’s 10 in 2012.

In the final moments, Curry again took charge, scoring seven of Team USA’s last 11 points. His clutch performance, including two free throws with eight seconds left, sealed the victory for the Americans.

Bench Struggles and Future Adjustments

Surprising Bench Issues

Throughout the Olympics, the U.S. bench had been a reliable source of scoring and energy. However, in this semifinal, the reserves struggled significantly. Kevin Durant, despite his overall positive impact, had a subdued first three quarters and finished with just a modest plus-minus rating. The bench players, including Anthony Edwards and Derrick White, contributed minimally, with White notably struggling during his time on the court.

Potential Adjustments for the Gold Medal Game

Given the bench’s underperformance, changes might be on the horizon for Team USA as they prepare for the gold medal game against host France. Notably, Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton did not see any action in the semifinal, suggesting that coach Kerr may consider tweaking the lineup for better results.

Conclusion

The USA vs. Serbia semifinal was a dramatic display of basketball at its finest. Serbia’s improved performance and strategic play presented a significant challenge, but Team USA’s veteran leadership and Stephen Curry’s exceptional play ultimately secured their place in the gold medal game. As they prepare to face France, adjustments may be necessary, but the thrilling victory against Serbia highlights the depth and resilience of the U.S. squad. Fans can look forward to an exciting showdown for Olympic gold.