Team USA’s dramatic comeback win against Serbia in the FIBA-style game at the Paris Olympics left fans and reporters in awe. Stephen Curry, widely regarded as the greatest shooter of all time, played a crucial role in the team’s victory. With just 144 seconds left on the clock, Curry made an incredible shot that bounced off the rim five times before falling through the net. This shot gave Team USA the lead for the first time since the first quarter.
The pressure on Team USA was immense, as there was a sense that anything less than a gold medal would bring about a reckoning within the national program. Non-American media, who sometimes openly support their respective teams, added to the pressure. However, witnessing the Americans fight back and seeing shots like Curry’s late 3-pointer go in was a relief for many. It’s a unique dynamic in international tournaments that doesn’t exist in the NBA, where familiarity with the players is greater.
Curry’s performance in the Olympics had been lackluster until the Serbia game. He had been averaging just 7.3 points in the previous four games, with single-digit scores in three of them. However, Curry’s breakout moment came in this crucial game. He finished with 36 points, hitting 12 of 19 shots and burying nine of 14 3-pointers. To put this into perspective, Curry has hit that many 3-pointers on 14 or fewer attempts only nine times in his entire career, spanning over 1,100 games.
Team USA coach Steve Kerr acknowledged that Curry had been pressing in the earlier games. He had been working hard and caring too much, according to Kerr. Despite the pressure, Curry never felt overwhelmed and believed in his ability to impact the game in other ways. He recognized that each game called for different contributions and embraced the beauty of playing for Team USA in FIBA tournaments.
Curry’s performance against Serbia was a massive adjustment for him. The team’s style of play made it challenging for many great players to find their rhythm. Curry had been averaging only seven shots per game in the tournament, limiting his opportunities. However, his confidence never wavered, and he seized the moment when it came.
The game between Team USA and Serbia was historic. LeBron James, who was part of the 2004 team that won bronze, threw the ball into the air in celebration after the game and found Curry waiting to hug him. It was a surreal moment, as the two NBA rivals shared a memory that no one could have predicted during their battles in the finals. James, reflecting on the game’s sheer emotion, acknowledged its significance and the rarity of competing for something big at this stage of his career.
The game was not only emotionally charged but also magical. Kevin Durant, Curry’s former teammate in Golden State, described Curry’s performance as “God-like.” Durant marveled at Curry’s ability to overcome struggles throughout the tournament and deliver when it mattered most. The game was one of the greatest Durant had ever seen Curry play.
In conclusion, Team USA’s comeback win against Serbia was a testament to their resilience and determination. Stephen Curry’s breakout performance in the game showcased his greatness and ability to rise to the occasion. The emotional impact of the game was evident in the reactions of players like LeBron James and Kevin Durant. This game will be remembered as one of the greatest basketball games of all time, where history was set aside for the sake of national pride.