The Olympic journey for Team USA in men’s basketball has begun with challenges as two key players contend with illness just before their first game in Paris.
The remarkable roster of NBA talents representing the United States is facing setbacks with the absence of their two pivotal centers during training sessions as they prepare to take on Serbia on Sunday.
Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers missed practice on Saturday, while LA Lakers standout Anthony Davis has been sidelined for several days, both dealing with sickness. Nevertheless, Coach Steve Kerr remains optimistic about having a full squad available for the opening tip-off.
‘I believe we’ll have everyone ready [for Sunday],’ Kerr remarked.
Kerr’s comments suggest that Kevin Durant will also be cleared to play, despite managing a calf issue early in training camp. The two-time NBA champion participated in his third straight practice after sitting out all five of Team USA’s exhibition matches.
Two of USA men’s basketball’s stars have been battling sickness before their opening game
Centers Joel Embiid and Anthony Davis have been dealing with illness in Paris over the past week
‘Hopefully [he’ll play],’ Kerr added. ‘He performed well in the scrimmage two days ago, and we’ll have another practice today as we take it one day at a time.’
Durant stands as Team USA’s all-time leading scorer in the Olympics. Although Kerr hinted at his return, he refrained from confirming a starting spot for him yet. However, his teammates are keen to have him back on the court.
‘He brings instant impact,’ remarked LeBron James on Durant’s potential involvement during a Saturday practice. ‘He appeared excellent in practice the other day. His conditioning and rhythm will improve, and if we’re able to get him back, it will have a major effect on our team.’
In support, two-time champion Jrue Holiday chimed in: ‘That’s Kevin Durant. What else do we need to discuss?’
Coach Steve Kerr remains positive that his entire roster will be available on Sunday
Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant missed all their exhibition games due to a calf injury
The Americans will face Nikola Jokic and Serbia in their opening game at the Olympics
LeBron James and Davis argued that their preparation will help them past the Nuggets’ big man
Team USA aims to contain a well-known opponent in Nikola Jokic as he leads Serbia in the upcoming games. LeBron and his teammates enter the match with confidence after defeating Serbia 105-79 in an exhibition on July 17, limiting The Joker to just 6-of-19 shooting.
On the other hand, the Serbian team secured a convincing victory in their final warm-up, besting Giannis Antetokounmpo and Greece by a significant margin of 20 points. Bogdan Bogdanovic scored 19 points, while Jokic nearly achieved a triple-double with 16 points, eight rebounds, and six assists.
‘Jokic, given his capabilities, of course, we recognize his skills in the NBA, but he might have a higher role in international play,’ Davis commented. ‘It’s going to be exciting.’
‘This isn’t like the NBA, where it’s a long season; it’s a sprint,’ added James. ‘This is akin to a Michael Johnson/Usain Bolt race. The real competition starts tomorrow … so we need to be prepared, and we will be.’
