Team USA Basketball Showcase highlights: USA escapes upset vs. South Sudan
The Team USA men's basketball team probably expected Saturday's game against South Sudan to be a simple win, but they had to make a big comeback in their second-to-last game before the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Team USA was losing by 16 points, but made a big comeback in the third quarter to win 101-100 against South Sudan, who only had one NBA player on their team.
LeBron James took charge of Team USA by scoring 23 points, igniting the comeback with his passionate play and sealing the deal with powerful dunks. Anthony Davis also contributed with a double-double, scoring 15 points and grabbing 11 rebounds coming off the bench.
However, the main focus of the game was on the team that didn't win. Carlik Jones of South Sudan had an impressive triple-double, scoring 15 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, and dishing out 11 assists. Marial Shayok, a former draft pick for the Philadelphia 76ers, was the top scorer with 25 points, making 6 out of 12 three-point shots.
The game was more challenging than originally thought, especially since Team USA's warm-up games before the Olympics were mostly easy wins. Coach Steve Kerr's team defeated Canada 86-72 last week and narrowly beat Australia 98-92 on Monday. Most recently, Team USA crushed Serbia 105-79, which included NBA MVP Nikola Jokić.
South Sudan showed in Saturday's match that they are a team to watch out for at the Olympics. They will face off against the same team again in Group C in less than two weeks.
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Highlights Of Team USA Vs. South Sudan
What's Team USA's Next Game?
The Team USA squad has another practice game before the 2024 Paris Olympics begin. They will face Germany in London on Monday, July 22 at 3 p.m. ET.
Team USA Beats South Sudan By One Point
South Sudan had several chances to score, but Team USA managed to hold on for a narrow victory, helped by a crucial block from Anthony Edwards.
Before the game started, experts predicted that Team USA would win by over 40 points. However, South Sudan surprised everyone with their impressive performance, especially in the first half of the game.
LeBron's Strong Play Helps Team USA Regain Lead
Things are getting really intense here, as LeBron James is making a strong play along the baseline to give Team USA the lead once again.
LeBron just made a big move, but now the U.S. team needs to make a defensive play. South Sudan will pass the ball in with only eight seconds left on the clock.
South Sudan Ahead Of Team USA
After Patience from South Sudan scores once again, the game becomes wide open when Anthony Davis misses a dunk.
JT Thor just missed a three-pointer a few moments ago, but he made up for it by hitting a triple from the corner with LeBron James guarding him closely. South Sudan is now leading 100-99 with only 20 seconds left in this exciting game.
USA Aiming To Finish Game As Pace Slows
The U.S. is currently leading by seven points and is putting emphasis on their defensive strategy. By making three consecutive stops and showing patience, they have successfully prevented South Sudan from making a comeback.
As the game winds down, USA is leading 99-95 with only a minute and a half left to play.
Anthony Davis Leads USA In Victory
The famous player from the Los Angeles Lakers scores an important basket, and Team USA holds onto a small advantage.
Jayson Tatum and Carlik Jones are scoring one after the other, and the score is 95-92 with only 3 minutes and 30 seconds left in the game. South Sudan is not giving up.
Confirmed: Carlik Jones Triple-double
Carlik Jones quickly secured a triple-double by smoothly driving to the basket for a layup. This brings his total to 11 points, along with 10 rebounds and 10 assists for the night.
The Fox TV crew is discussing his chances of coming back to the NBA, and it's easy to understand why they are excited about it.
Monitoring Carlik Jones Triple-double In South Sudan
Carlik Jones is already doing really well in today's game, with 10 assists and 10 rebounds. If he can score nine more points, he will have a triple-double against Team USA. Carlik is a South Sudanese-American player who has only played in 12 NBA games over three seasons.
The score is 90-84 in favor of the USA with 6 minutes and 45 seconds remaining.
USA Ends Third Quarter With 16-0 Run
Devin Booker makes a three-pointer from far away, and then Steph Curry takes a shot from almost outside the court. This puts Team USA ahead for the first time since the first quarter.
Out of nowhere, the focus is now on the USA team, as Shayok finally fails to make a shot. LeBron James wraps up the quarter by passing the ball to Joel Embiid, who scores a layup right at the buzzer, giving the U.S. a sudden five-point advantage.
In the third quarter of the game, Team USA scored an impressive 37 points, which was a significant improvement compared to their lackluster performance in the first half.
LeBron's Monster Dunk Gets And-1
Jrue Holiday's determination on the side of the court keeps a play going, leading to LeBron seizing the opportunity and throwing down a massive dunk even with a foul.
LeBron shows off, makes the free throw, and now the score is 76-71.
Shayok On Fire For South Sudan
The United States is making progress, but they still struggle with turnovers and defending against fast breaks. Meanwhile, South Sudan is capitalizing on these weaknesses, as Marial Shayok just made his fifth three-point shot of the game thanks to another assist from Carlik Jones.
Even though Team USA is improving their performance, the "Bright Stars" are still ahead by 11 points with three quarters left to play.
Team USA Making Progress
The USA team needed to step up their game after halftime, and it seems like the adjustments they've made are paying off. They started off the half with a strong 14-4 run in just under 4 minutes, reducing their 14-point lag to just a two-possession game. Bam Adebayo further closed the gap by making two successful free throws.
South Sudan's Unresolved Conflict
Ex-Baylor player Omot grabs a rebound and slams it home for an impressive dunk over Davis, adding 11 points to his total for the game.
USA Team Starts Off Strong Defensively
Anthony Edwards made a great block on the outside and Jayson Tatum scored while getting fouled, earning an extra free throw. Team USA is slowly reducing their big disadvantage on the scoreboard.
"Team USA's Fresh Look For The Second Half"
Anthony Edwards, Derrick White, Jayson Tatum, Bam Adebayo and Anthony Davis begin the second half with a new appearance to ignite the start.
South Sudan Leads Team USA 58-44 At Halftime
There is trouble brewing in London as Team USA is playing poorly and struggling with their shooting. South Sudan is taking advantage of opportunities to score quickly, causing turnovers, and shooting confidently. The current score is not a coincidence.
In the first half, LeBron James is the top scorer for the U.S. team with 12 points, making 5 out of 8 shots. But the 39-year-old player also has the most turnovers in the game, showing one of the problems Team USA is facing.
The standout player for South Sudan was Carlik Jones, who scored 13 points and dished out 6 assists. Notably, Jones was able to score multiple buckets by attacking James directly.
The Team USA players have only made one out of twelve shots from behind the three-point line. On the other hand, South Sudan has successfully made seven out of their shots from downtown, shooting at an impressive 50% accuracy rate.
Team USA Is Finally Awake!
South Sudan has been displaying increased effort and accuracy in their playing, however, their defense could not hold off LeBron James who made a drive and assisted Jrue Holiday in making a layup after Devin Booker caused a turnover.
Despite these factors, Team USA is behind by 11 points with only one minute remaining in the first half.
South Sudan Leads By 13 In Second
Activity has decreased here after a lengthy analysis of a call that went beyond the boundaries, which was then followed by a break in the game.
South Sudan is making a lot of their shots, shooting over 57% from the field. They have been especially successful from beyond the arc, making 6 out of 13 three-point attempts. In contrast, the U.S. has only made one three-pointer and is 10 for 20 on two-point attempts. The difference in shooting percentages can be attributed to Team USA taking harder shots, while South Sudan is getting open looks by playing fast and pushing the ball up the court.
Team USA Returns To Starting Lineup
Steve Kerr decided to put his starting lineup back on the court after witnessing enough of the game. The team had initially taken the lead, but South Sudan has now surged ahead by an impressive 15 points. This drastic turn of events occurred after Steph Curry failed to make three-point shots and the USA team committed a turnover.
Yes, you read correctly: South Sudan is currently leading by a score of 43-28.
South Sudan Sinks 6 Out Of 11 Threes
South Sudan is playing exceptionally well, with Nuni Omot making a fantastic three-point shot from well beyond the arc. This marks their sixth successful three-pointer of the game.
South Sudan is leading by a score of 36-28 as Team USA fails to make their next three shots.
Who Is Khaman Maluach?
Maluach is a tall and heavy center standing at 7-1 and weighing 250 pounds. He originally hails from the NBA Academy Africa. Fans in the United States can expect to see a significant amount of him, as he has made a commitment to play for Duke University.
He is highly praised by 247Sports and is considered the No. 4 player and the top center in his class.
USA Team Behind South Sudan In First Quarter
Even though they started strong, Team USA is now trailing behind South Sudan by two points, with the score at 26-24.
South Sudan has been successful at shooting three-pointers, while the USA has been taking difficult shots that haven't been going in.
South Sudan Leads Despite Adebayo Dunk
Bam Adebayo is all alone as USA steals the ball, then leaps for a strong slam dunk.
On the other hand, South Sudan responds with a quick three-pointer, and with only a minute left in the first quarter, the United States is behind 23-19.
Team USA's Fresh Lineup
Bam Adebayo, Anthony Davis, Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, and Jayson Tatum have all entered the game for coach Steve Kerr, who made substitutions.
Yet, South Sudan has had a strong finish, with a 17-year-old Khaman Maluach scoring a dunk to bring the score to 18-16 in their team's favor.
Gabriel Aids South Sudan Fully
Former professional basketball player Wenyen Gabriel showed off his skills on both offense and defense, making a three-point shot and then forcing a foul with his agile defensive movements.
Marial Shayok makes a three-pointer soon after, and South Sudan is behind by two points...then Steph Curry hits a familiar off-balance three-pointer.
USA Starts Strong
Team USA is quickly asserting dominance in this exhibition game. They have already scored 10 points in the first three minutes, ending several possessions with impressive slam dunks.
This includes a play from LeBron James while his team is on the fast break.
How To Watch USA V South Sudan: Time, TV, Streaming
Venue: The O2 Arena in the city of London
Watch live sports with the Fox Sports app, fuboTV, or YouTube TV.
HOW TO WATCH: Don't miss Team USA in the Basketball Showcase with a Fubo subscription
"Paris 2024 Olympics Men's 5x5 Basketball Draws"
USA Basketball Showcase Schedule Updated
July 22: USA will be facing off against Germany at 3 p.m. ET on Fox in London.
US Men's Basketball Team Roster
Bam Adebayo, a player on the Miami Heat basketball team
Phoenix Suns player Devin Booker is having an impressive season. He has been playing at a high level, leading his team to multiple victories. Booker's scoring ability and leadership on the court have been key factors in the Suns' success this season. Fans of the team are excited to see how far Booker can take them in the playoffs.
Steph Curry, the basketball player for the Golden State Warriors
Anthony Davis, who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers
Kevin Durant has made his decision to sign with the Phoenix Suns. He chose to join their team for the upcoming season.
Anthony Edwards, a player for the Minnesota Timberwolves
Joel Embiid, a player for the Philadelphia 76ers
Tyrese Haliburton, a player for the Indiana Pacers
Jrue Holiday has signed with the Boston Celtics.
LeBron James is a basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Jayson Tatum, a player for the Boston Celtics
Derrick White is currently playing for the Boston Celtics.
Roster Of South Sudan's Men's Basketball Team
Junior Madu, a forward for the Tasmania JackJumpers, recently spoke about the upcoming season and his excitement to hit the court with his new team. He shared his enthusiasm for the opportunity to play in Tasmania and expressed his dedication to helping the team succeed. With a strong work ethic and passion for the game, Madu is ready to make an impact in the NBL.
Nuni Omot, a player for the Taichung Suns, is ready to showcase his skills on the court. The rising star is eager to make a name for himself in the basketball world and is looking forward to competing with some of the best players in the league. With his talent and determination, Omot is sure to turn heads and make a significant impact on his team. Fans can't wait to see what the future holds for this promising athlete.
Carlik Jones, a player for Partizan Mozzart Bet, recently made headlines with his impressive performances on the basketball court. Jones has been showcasing his skills and talent, capturing the attention of fans and scouts alike. With his stellar play, he has solidified himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of basketball. Jones' impact on the court has been undeniable, and he continues to excel in every game he plays. Fans can't wait to see what he does next as he continues to make a name for himself in the sport.
Khaman Maluach, a customs authority
Kuany Kuany, a player for Keilor Thunder
Marial Shayok, a player for the Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin team
Deng Acuoth from the Knox Raiders has had a fantastic season so far. He has been playing exceptionally well and is a key player for the team. His performance has been outstanding and he has been a standout player in every game. Acuoth's skills on the court have been impressive and he has been a crucial part of the team's success. He is definitely a player to watch and has a bright future ahead of him in basketball.
Majok Deng is a player for the Tasmania JackJumpers.
Peter Jok from Cholet Basket Peter Jok is currently playing for Cholet Basket.
Koch Bar, located in Horsens IC, is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. This establishment is known for its great atmosphere and delicious food and drinks. Whether you're looking to grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely meal with friends, Koch Bar has something for everyone. Be sure to stop by and check it out for yourself!
Wenyen Gabriel has recently signed with Maccabi Tel Aviv.
On Sunday, the Adelaide 36ers took on their opponents.
What Is The Date Of Paris 2024 Olympics?
The 2024 Olympics in Paris will begin on July 24th and continue until August 11th.
Tips For Watching The 2024 Paris Olympics
Television: The games will be shown on NBC, USA Network, E!, Telemundo, CNBC.
Locations Of USA Basketball Showcase
The last two USA Basketball Showcase show games are happening at The O2 Arena in London, UK. The venue will also host the women's national team on July 23 for a show game against Germany.
Learn About Team USA Players
The talented U.S. team is like a dream team from the NBA, with three players (Jrue Holiday, Jayson Tatum, and Derrick White) who also play for the Boston Celtics, who recently won the championship.
Experienced players such as LeBron James and Steph Curry are firmly established as the starting lineup for coach Steve Kerr. Tatum was also recognized for his performance by being selected for the All-NBA First Team last season. Center Anthony Davis, forward Kevin Durant, and guard Anthony Edwards were all named to the Second Team, showing their skills in being able to dominate any game they play in.
Joel Embiid, although there were concerns about his fitness, could prove to be extremely important. He is the only player on the team who is seven feet tall for the upcoming Olympic games, where the focus may be on dominating in the interior.
Get To Know South Sudan Players
Despite Bol Bol not being able to play due to personal reasons, the victory against Great Britain in London shows that there are still skilled players willing to compete under the leadership of head coach Royal Ivey, who also serves as an assistant coach for the Houston Rockets.
Defenders Carlik Jones and forward Marial Shayok were the standouts in the victory against Team GB. Shayok led South Sudan with 27 points, making 4 out of 6 three-point shots. Jones also contributed 13 points and dished out a game-high eight assists.
Born in Nebraska, JT Thor did not play in the pre-game, but now that Bol is no longer playing, he is the only player from South Sudan on an NBA team, specifically the Phoenix Suns.
USA Team Schedule For 2024 Paris Olympics
The timetable is based on information from NBCOlympics.com and may be updated.
July 28: United States vs. Serbia at 11:15 in the morning Eastern Time on NBC
July 31: The United States will play against South Sudan at 3 p.m. Eastern Time on the USA Network.
August 3: United States against Puerto Rico at 11:15 a.m. Eastern Time on NBC.
August 6: To Be Determined versus To Be Determined
August 8: To be determined versus to be determined
August 10: To Be Determined team will be playing against another To Be Determined team.
US Women's Basketball Olympic Schedule
The women's events kick off on July 29, with a warm-up exhibition happening on July 23.
July 23 - USA vs. Germany: 3 p.m. Eastern Time on FS1 (friendly match)
July 29 - Women's Group Stage, Group C: United States versus Japan: 1 p.m. Eastern Time on USA Network, Peacock, and NBCOlympics.com.
On August 1, there will be a Women's Group Phase match between Belgium and the United States at 3 p.m. Eastern Time. You can catch the game on USA Network, Peacock, and NBCOlympics.com.
August 4 - Women's Team Competition, Group C: Germany vs. United States will air at 11:15 a.m. ET on USA Network, Peacock, and NBCOlympics.com.
On August 7, the Women's Quarterfinals will begin at different times ranging from 5 a.m. ET to 3:30 p.m. ET. You can watch the games on Peacock and NBCOlympics.com.
August 9 - Women's Semifinal: Catch the action at 11:30 p.m. ET or 3 p.m. on NBC, Peacock, and NBCOlympics.com.
August 11 - Women's Bronze Medal Match: 5:30 a.m. Eastern Time on USA Network, Peacock, and NBCOlympics.com.
August 11 - Championship game for women's gold medal: 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time available on NBC, Peacock, and NBCOlympics.com.
USA Basketball's Medal Count?
The men's Olympic basketball team has won a total of 19 medals, with an impressive 16 of them being gold. The most recent gold medal was secured in the 2020 Olympic Games.
"Starting Lineup For Team USA!"
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This post was first seen on USA TODAY: Team USA narrowly avoids a big upset against South Sudan: Highlights and additional information.
