In a thrilling display of high-level basketball, the USA Basketball Men’s National Team emerged victorious with a 98-92 win over Australia on Monday at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This exhibition match, part of the USA Basketball Showcase, highlighted the strengths and areas of improvement for the world’s top-ranked team as they prepare for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The U.S. team, led by Coach Steve Kerr, showed significant offensive improvement and maintained a strong defensive presence, marking their second win in as many exhibition games. Anthony Davis was a standout performer, contributing 17 points and 14 rebounds. Devin Booker added 16 points, while Anthony Edwards chipped in with 14 points, four rebounds, and two steals. LeBron James, Joel Embiid, and Bam Adebayo each scored 10 points, with James also providing three assists and three rebounds.
The Americans displayed their long-range shooting prowess, sinking 12 three-pointers, with eight different players connecting from beyond the arc. However, ball control remains an area for improvement, as evidenced by their 18 turnovers, up from 15 in their previous game against Canada.
The U.S. came out strong in the first quarter, shooting an impressive 56.3% from the field and hitting six of ten three-point attempts. Early offensive surges from LeBron James and Anthony Edwards helped the Americans build a 32-21 lead by the end of the first quarter. The team also excelled at the free-throw line, making all eight of their attempts in the first quarter.
Despite Australia’s early efforts, including a strong showing from Jock Landale, who scored seven points and grabbed three rebounds in the first five minutes, the U.S. managed to maintain a comfortable lead. A collaborative play involving James, Tatum, Curry, Edwards, and Embiid exemplified the team’s excellent ball movement, culminating in a highlight-reel dunk by Embiid that secured a 53-35 lead just before halftime.
Australia, ranked fifth in the world, mounted several comebacks in the second half. Josh Giddey led a 7-0 run that narrowed the gap to 39-30, but the U.S. responded with timely shots, including a momentum-shifting three-pointer from Stephen Curry. The Americans entered the fourth quarter with a 76-61 lead but faced a late-game challenge as Australia rallied with a 15-3 run, narrowing the score to 86-80.
In the final moments, Tyrese Haliburton’s back-to-back three-pointers provided the U.S. some breathing room. Despite Australia’s persistent efforts, the U.S. secured the win with clutch free throws from Booker and a decisive jumper.
The U.S. team will conclude its Abu Dhabi showcase with a game against fourth-ranked Serbia and three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic on Wednesday. Following that, they will face Olympic newcomer South Sudan and 2023 FIBA World Cup champion Germany at the O2 Arena in London. The Americans are set to open their Olympic campaign on July 28 against Serbia, who will face Australia on Tuesday.
Australia’s Jock Landale led all scorers with 20 points and seven rebounds, while Josh Giddey added 17 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. Despite the loss, Australia’s performance demonstrated their potential as they seek their first Olympic medal.
The USA Men’s Basketball Team’s exhibition win over Australia showcased their depth, talent, and areas for improvement. As they continue their preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Coach Steve Kerr and his squad will look to build on these positive steps and refine their game to defend their gold medal status.
