Team USA put on a dominant performance against South Sudan, securing their spot in the 2024 Olympics and extending their streak of gold medals to five.
Team USA continued their impressive run to the 2024 Olympics, thrashing South Sudan 121-67 in a one-sided affair. The victory not only secures their spot in Paris but also extends their streak of gold medals in men's basketball to five consecutive Games.
The Americans came out of the gates firing, exploding for a 36-12 first-quarter lead. The South Sudanese team, lacking the size and athleticism of Team USA, struggled to keep up with the tempo and intensity of their opponents.
Team USA Dominates South Sudan, Secures Olympic Berth
Leading the charge for Team USA was Kevin Durant, who poured in a team-high 27 points on an efficient 9-of-15 shooting. Jalen Brunson provided solid support, adding 18 points and 8 assists, while Bam Adebayo dominated the paint with 15 points and 12 rebounds.
South Sudan, despite the lopsided score, showed moments of grit and determination throughout the game. Wendel Jeremia led the way for his team, scoring 16 points on 4-of-9 shooting from three-point range. Ater Majok also contributed, adding 9 points and 8 rebounds.
However, Team USA's overall dominance proved too much for South Sudan to overcome. In the second quarter, the Americans extended their lead to 65-31 on the back of a blistering 17-0 run. They maintained their relentless pace in the second half, scoring 56 points to South Sudan's 36.
With the win, Team USA secures their place in the 2024 Olympics, where they will look to defend their gold medal and extend their historic run. South Sudan, though falling short of a spot in Paris, has shown significant progress and determination, and will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with in future international competitions.
Team USA will now turn their attention to their remaining Olympic qualifying games, where they face off against Lithuania, Italy, and Spain. With a talented roster filled with NBA stars, the Americans are poised to make another run at Olympic glory and bring home a fifth straight gold medal.
