US Overwhelms Brazil to Advance to Paris Olympics 2024 Semifinals

US Overwhelms Brazil to Advance to Paris Olympics 2024 Semifinals

With a dominant 122-87 win over Brazil, the United States progressed to the semifinals of the Paris Olympics in a stunning exhibition of basketball skill. This win, achieved on August 6, 2024, solidifies the U.S. team’s status as a formidable force in the tournament.

United States                      vs                                Brazil

122

87

The Americans, led by Devin Booker with 18 points, showcased their offensive depth and defensive resilience throughout the game. Their performance contrasted with the nail-biting contests earlier in the day, where other top teams faced significant challenges. The U.S. came into this match determined to assert their dominance, a goal they achieved with relative ease.

LeBron James, who played a crucial role in the team’s success, had to leave the game in the third quarter after a collision with Brazil’s Georginho de Paula. LeBron James took an elbow to his left eye while going for a rebound, requiring four stitches. Despite the injury, he remained upbeat and assured fans he was fine, reflecting his resilience and leadership.

After just 12 minutes of play, Joel Embiid led the U.S. with 14 points and seven rebounds, while Anthony Edwards led the team in scoring with 17. Kevin Durant, who added 11 points, became the U.S. Olympic career scoring leader, surpassing Lisa Leslie’s record of 488 points. Durant’s achievement was a testament to his exceptional skill and consistency over multiple Olympic Games.

The game’s pivotal moment came towards the end of the second quarter when the U.S. executed a 21-2 run. This surge transformed a modest eight-point lead into a commanding 63-36 advantage at halftime. Despite a brief period where Brazil cut the lead to eight points, the U.S. quickly reasserted control, effectively ending any hopes of a Brazilian comeback.

Brazil’s Bruno Caboclo emerged as the top scorer with 30 points, but his efforts were insufficient to turn the tide against the well-oiled U.S. machine. The game also attracted notable figures such as retired U.S. star Carmelo Anthony, his son Kiyan, and U.S. women’s basketball star A’ja Wilson, adding to the electric atmosphere in the arena.

The U.S. will face Serbia in the semifinals on August 8, 2024. The other semifinal will feature Germany against France. The results of the gold and bronze medal matches will determine the contestants, which are set for August 10, 2024.

This victory is a significant step towards the U.S. team’s quest for a fourth consecutive gold medal. As they prepare for the next stage of the tournament, the team’s performance against Brazil reminds them of their skill, depth, and unwavering determination.