USA Basketball Score: LeBron James Powers Team USA to Victory Over Germany in Final Pre-Olympic Exhibition
Team USA secured a narrow 92-88 victory over Germany in London on Monday night. The game, which marked the final tune-up before the Paris Games, saw a spectacular performance by LeBron James, who scored the last 11 points for the American team, ensuring their perfect 5-0 record in exhibition play.
Announced earlier in the day as the male flagbearer for the United States in Friday’s Olympic opening ceremony along the River Seine, James delivered a clutch performance that solidified his leadership role on the team. With 20 points, six rebounds, and four assists, James was instrumental in turning the tide for Team USA, especially in the final moments of the game.
The matchup against Germany was anything but easy for the Americans. Despite taking an early lead, the U.S. team found themselves trailing at various points, particularly during a challenging second and third quarter where Germany outscored them 54-39. The Germans, led by Franz Wagner’s 18 points and the solid playmaking of Dennis Schröder, posed a formidable challenge.
“We’ve had every experience,” said Stephen Curry, who added 13 points to the American effort. “Now it’s obviously a matter of showing up when the lights are bright next week. I think we’re ready. I think we’re prepared. Now we have to perform.”
Joel Embiid contributed 15 points, while Anthony Edwards and Anthony Davis added 11 and 10 points respectively. Despite being outscored from beyond the arc, with Germany hitting 13 of 45 three-point attempts compared to Team USA’s 6 of 17, the American team managed to hold their composure and secure the win.
The game showcased moments of brilliance and resilience from Team USA. After Stephen Curry tied the score at 75, Devin Booker executed a crucial block followed by a remarkable layup, putting the U.S. ahead by three. The Germans, who had previously knocked out Team USA in the semifinals of the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, continued to fight, holding an 82-81 lead with just over four minutes left.
However, LeBron James took control in the final minutes. His dunk to regain the lead, followed by a crucial three-pointer with 1:25 left on the clock, were pivotal moments that sealed the victory for the Americans. James’ performance in the closing minutes demonstrated why he is considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
The victory over Germany concluded a series of challenging exhibition games for Team USA. They previously faced tough competition from Canada, Australia, South Sudan, and Serbia. Each game provided valuable lessons and experiences that the team will carry into the Olympic Games.
The Americans will now head to Paris with high hopes of continuing their dominance in Olympic basketball. They will face Serbia in their first group stage game on Sunday, followed by matchups against South Sudan and Puerto Rico. As they aim for their fifth consecutive gold medal and eighth in the last nine Olympics, Team USA is poised and ready for the challenges ahead.