The USA men’s basketball team is set to play its second game against South Sudan in the chase for gold in the 2024 Paris Olympics after beating Serbia 110-84 in their opener.
Team USA struggled slightly at the start of the first match in the Olympics against reigning NBA MVP Nikola Jokic having to fight back from a 10-2 deficit in the first quarter. However, Kevin Durant came in clutch off the bench to help the USA outscore Serbia in the four quarters. KD was dominant, scoring 21 points on 8-of-8, including five shots beyond the arc.
On the other hand, South Sudan started their first-ever Olympic game with a 90-79 win over Puerto Rico. Things were not all rosy for the Olympic debutants as they trailed by six points at halftime. However, they came back energized in the second half, outscoring Puerto Rico by 17 points.
USA vs. SOUTH SUDAN
Team |
Spread |
Total |
MoneyLine |
| USA | -29.5
-105 |
O 191.5
-105 |
-10000 |
| SOUTH SUDAN | +29.5
-115 |
U 191.5
-115 |
+1800 |
**Odds Subject to Change** |
|||
USA vs. SOUTH SUDAN Match Details
- Fixture: USA @SOUTH SUDAN
- Date and Time: July 31, 2024@3 p.m. ET
- Location: Decathlon Arena – Stade Pierre Mauroy, Lille
Apex Tale of the Tape
| USA | vs. | SOUTH SUDAN |
| 1-0 | Record | 1-0 |
| 110 | Points Per Game | 90 |
| 56.3 | 3PT% | 34.5 |
| 60.0 | FT% | 93.3 |
| 6 | OREB Per Game | 18 |
| 84 | Points Allowed Per Game | 79 |
| 24 | Assists Per Game | 18 |
| 3 | Blocks Per Game | 5 |
| 33 | DREB Per Game | 37 |
Key Stats
USA
Lebron James, who is almost 40 years old, was emphatic, scoring 21 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists. Kevin Durant went on an insane run after coming from the bench to help Team USA bridge the deficit in the first minutes of the first quarter. A major concern was a struggling Joel Embiid, who looks like he is yet to fully recover.
Nearly two weeks ago, the United States played South Sudan in the preparation period, and it took an iconic Lebron James last-minute winner to avoid a defeat. However, this Olympic match will be a different ball game and we expect American basketball stars to play their A-game.
SOUTH SUDAN
South Sudan won their first game against Puerto Rico confirming their strong showing against the USA in an exhibition game was not a fluke. Carlik Jones was the leading scorer with 19 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Marion Shayok’s performance was also good, scoring 16 points. But, they missed a lot of shots and layups. South Sudan comes into this match as underdogs, but they will struggle to beat a star-heavy USA team.
Prediction
The United States are definitely the favorite to win against South Sudan. Team USA is more talented, making them the overwhelming favorite to win gold in Paris. After a close game between the two teams, the United States men’s basketball team came out strong against Serbia.
Steve Kerr, America’s coach didn’t even bring Jayson Tatum, the reigning NBA Champion who has finished top-six in NBA MVP rankings in each of the last three seasons. However, the Americans must be careful as they came close to losing against South Sudan in an exhibition before the Olympics started.
South Sudan has a young team that can match Americans’ energy levels throughout the entire 40 minutes. But, the new entrants to the Olympics did not face KD during the preparation match so having him gives the USA a bigger advantage. We expect Team USA to be dominant in the entire match.
We expect the total points to fall within the range of 181 to 186 points. South does not have a better offensive ability like Serbia, but they can defend better. Both teams are likely to not score as many points, making the likely outcome,Under 191.5.
Final Pick
Under 191.5 (-115)
About the Author
John Muthui is an experienced freelance sports writer, with a strong passion for Basketball, Soccer, Tennis, and sports betting. John has also written for top sports platforms and magazines.
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