The United States narrowly avoided a major upset, coming from 16 points down to secure a dramatic 101-100 victory over South Sudan in an Olympics warm-up game in London. South Sudan led 58-42 in the second quarter and held a 14-point advantage at halftime during the match at the O2 Arena.
In a thrilling comeback, the USA went on a 16-0 run to end the third quarter with a five-point lead. South Sudan fought back and took a one-point lead with 20 seconds remaining. However, LeBron James hit a crucial lay-up with eight seconds left, sealing the victory for the USA as South Sudan failed to score in the final moments.
The USA, aiming for their fifth consecutive men’s basketball gold medal at the Paris Olympics, showcased a roster filled with NBA stars. South Sudan, ranked 33rd globally and making their Olympic debut, impressed by outplaying the world number one team in the first half, shooting 61% from the field.
Marial Shayok led South Sudan with a game-high 25 points, while Charlotte Hornets forward JT Thor’s three-pointer put his team ahead 100-99 late in the game. James led the USA with 23 points, including the game-winning shot, demonstrating his enduring impact at 39.
Despite the scare, the USA has won all four of their pre-Olympic exhibition games, with their final warm-up against Germany scheduled at the O2 on Monday. Reflecting on the game, James said, “That was better than the blowouts, at least we got tested – I like getting tested baby.”
The USA and South Sudan will meet again in Group C of the 2024 Olympics on July 31. USA guard Anthony Edwards acknowledged the significance of the match, stating, “The match was super important because we feel like we can’t be beaten and they showed us we can be beat. We have to come ready to play.”
