The stage was set for Team USA to tip off their run for gold at the Tokyo Olympics against France. All eyes were on how the squad would perform after a dreadful start to their exhibitions. Their unbeatable Olympic run that traces back to 2004 was also on the line. France, a European powerhouse ranked eighth in the latest power rankings, were eager to pile on Team USA’s misery.
In the first half, Kevin Durant scored seven early points before picking up two quick fouls. This forced him to head to the bench. It was Bam Adebayo who led the way for Team USA in his absence. He notched 12 points and 4 rebounds at the end of the two periods. On the other side, France was struggling from the perimeter, going only 1-of-11 from downtown. Despite their struggles, they only trailed by eight going into the third quarter.
The second half was a completely different story for both teams. Well, except for Durant’s foul trouble situation. France began to find their rhythm offensively, going on to hit seven threes in the half to finish the game. They also found a way to slow down Adebayo, who went scoreless in the second half. Jrue Holiday gave the red white and blue a spark on his way to 18 points, but it wasn’t enough.
Evan Fournier (28 PTS, 11-22 FG) hit a clutch three with under a minute left in the game to take a 76-74 lead. This play was made possible after a magnificent hustle play by Guerschon Yabusele to save the ball inbounds. The pass to get the ball set Fournier up for the shot of the game.
The United States didn’t go away easily though. Kevin Durant had two opportunities from the top of the key to take the lead. He missed both shots. Jrue Holiday had a corner three to take the lead too. He missed the shot. With Team USA trailing by four following two France free throws, Damian Lillard slipped on what seemed like a play drawn up for him. This caused him to turn over the ball.
France went on to defeat the United States 83-76. Fournier had his fingerprints all over this one, but Rudy Gobert’s (14 PTS, 9 REBS) presence played a key role. Gobert put pressure on Team USA in the interior and he reciprocated those efforts on the perimeter as well. France made history that was worth waiting 17 years for.
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