Team USA, led by newly-appointed flag bearer LeBron James, edged out a win over the reigning FIBA champions Germany in a 92-88 finish in London on Monday, just days away from the start of the Olympics.
Following Saturday’s close victory over South Sudan, the USA were once again fighting through the whole game to keep up with Germany.
In a stunning fourth quarter finish, James scored the final 11 points for Team USA for the comeback victory. Starting the game with a 21-6 run, America had a commanding lead through the first quarter, a lead Germany began chipping away at through the second and third quarters.
It was a team effort that propelled Team USA to work through the fourth quarter, with the contribution of Stephen Curry to tie the game, and Devin Booker to put the U.S. ahead by three. This is when James took control, leading to his 11 point run that ultimately won Team USA the game.
James ended with 20 points on the night, followed by Joel Embiid who contributed 15 and Curry who dropped 13.
Germany was led by Franz Wagner of the Orlando Magic, who contributed 18 points and seven rebounds. This was followed by Andreas Obst, contributing 14 points, and Dennis Schröder of the Brooklyn Nets, who finished with 13 points.
This was the last game for Team USA before the Olympics start this Friday. Team USA is set to face off against Serbia this Sunday, followed by South Sudan (July 31) and Puerto Rico (Aug. 3) to finish the group stage of the tournament. With the team that the U.S. has assembled, another gold medal is surely in reach for this Olympic super-team.
Team USA seeks their fifth straight gold medal, and their eighth gold medal in their last nine appearances.
