LeBron James secured a dramatic victory for Team USA with a clutch layup in the final seconds, leading to a 101-100 win over South Sudan in an exhibition game at London’s O2 Arena. This thrilling match underscored the rise of South Sudan as a formidable competitor in international basketball.
In a game where Team USA was favored by 43 points, South Sudan, a young nation making its first Olympic appearance, defied expectations. Led by Marial Shayok’s 24 points and Carlik Jones’ triple-double (15 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists), South Sudan built a surprising 16-point lead in the second quarter. Their relentless play and precision shooting (61% in the first half) kept Team USA on the back foot.
Team USA struggled early, missing 12 of their first 13 three-point attempts. At halftime, with a 14-point deficit, Coach Steve Kerr switched to a more defensive lineup. Anthony Davis’ strong interior presence helped narrow the gap, but it was LeBron James who turned the tide.
James, who finished with 25 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists, orchestrated a pivotal 18-0 run in the second half, giving Team USA their first lead since the opening quarter. Stephen Curry’s deep three-pointer and James’ subsequent crucial plays were instrumental in this comeback. However, South Sudan refused to back down, with JT Thor hitting a three-pointer to regain a one-point lead with 20 seconds left.
In the final moments, James drove to the basket and scored the go-ahead layup with just 8 seconds remaining. South Sudan had one last chance, but their shot missed, sealing the narrow victory for Team USA.
“This was a wake-up call,” said Coach Steve Kerr. “We have to respect every opponent. South Sudan played the game of their lives, and we had to dig deep to come out on top.”
The match, while an exhibition, highlighted the competitive spirit and potential of South Sudan’s team. LeBron James summed up the experience, saying, “I like these games better than blowouts. They test us and make us better.”
Team USA will need to maintain this intensity as they head into the Paris Olympics, where they will face South Sudan again in group play on July 31.
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