On a day filled with high expectations, both the United States men's and women's 3x3 basketball teams stumbled in their opening matches of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The women’s team faced a tough 17-13 defeat against Germany, while the men’s team suffered a 22-14 loss to Serbia, the reigning world No. 1 team in men’s 3x3 basketball.
Women’s Team: A Promising Start, An Unexpected End
Initially, the U.S. women’s 3x3 team seemed poised for victory as they surged to an early 5-0 lead against Germany. However, the tide quickly turned, and Germany’s resilience ultimately led to their 17-13 triumph. This loss is a stark contrast to the team’s past success; notably, they clinched gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The current roster features standout athletes such as Dearica Hamby from the Los Angeles Sparks and Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream. Hamby, who joined the team after Cameron Brink suffered a torn ACL, failed to turn the tide in the face of Germany's robust defense. “I didn’t think it was going to be that ugly,” expressed team member Cierra Burdick, reflecting on the game.
Burdick, who plays professionally for Valencia in Spain, and Hailey Van Lith, a college basketball sensation, were significant contributors to the team that won gold at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup. Despite this strong pedigree, the team struggled to find their rhythm in Paris.
Men’s Team: Early Lead, Disappointing Finish
Similarly, the U.S. men’s 3x3 team experienced a tough outing against Serbia, ending with a 22-14 loss. Despite leading for much of the first half, they ultimately could not withstand Serbia's offensive onslaught. The U.S. team, which includes former NBA player Jimmer Fredette and players Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox, had high hopes coming into the tournament. Their qualification for the Paris Olympics was secured with a second-place finish at the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
Fredette, who played six seasons in the NBA, remains optimistic despite the defeat. “It’s a long tournament for us, and we’re excited to get back at it tomorrow,” he stated, underlining the team’s determination to bounce back in the subsequent games.
Serbia: A Dominant Force
Serbia’s prowess in the 3x3 format was on full display. As the world’s top-ranked team, they have consistently dominated international competitions, including a bronze medal finish at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Their victory over the U.S. in the 2023 FIBA World Cup final, with a close score of 21-19, served as a prelude to their latest success in Paris.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
The U.S. women's 5x5 basketball team continues to set the standard for excellence, having not lost an Olympic game since 1992 and aiming for their eighth consecutive gold medal. This formidable roster includes A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and the veteran Diana Taurasi, who is making her sixth Olympic appearance.
The men’s 5x5 team is also in pursuit of their fifth consecutive gold, underscoring the United States’ longstanding dominance in traditional basketball formats. However, the early struggles in the 3x3 format suggest that adjustments are necessary if both teams hope to stand atop the podium in this newer Olympic discipline.
As the tournament progresses, both the U.S. men’s and women’s 3x3 teams will need to regroup and refine their strategies to overcome the formidable international competition. The resilience of these athletes and their ability to adapt will be crucial in determining their success in the high-stakes environment of the Paris Olympics.