The hype around Team USA’s men’s basketball team is unparalleled to say the least. Ever since professional American basketball players were allowed to compete at the Olympic Games, the media have had an eagle eye on the team.
The same scrutiny on the Dream Team of 1992 featuring the likes of Michael Jordan and ‘Magic’ Johnson has continued in 2021. A fortnight ago, the men’s team suffered back-to-back defeats in their build up to Tokyo 2020. On Sunday, they have endured their first Olympics defeat since Athens 2004, losing to France 83-76.
Kevin Durant and Damian Lillard, two all-stars in their own rights, were disappointing tallying up just 10 and 11 points, respectively. Meanwhile, Jrue Holiday was Team USA’s top scorer with 18 points. France’s Evan Fournier, who features for the Boston Celtics, scored 28 points.
To be in medal contention, Team USA must beat Iran and Czech Republic in their remaining two pool games.
Here was the reaction to Team USA’s setback against France:
.@stephenasmith responds to the U.S. men’s basketball team’s loss in their first game at #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/H8gfmXPPJA
— ESPN (@espn) July 25, 2021
I was WRONG about Team USA. Our guys went embarrassingly, shockingly cold down the stretch and blew their opener to France even though France was even worse from three than we were. BUT IT AIN’T OVER. Maybe this was just what they needed.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) July 25, 2021
Team USA showing up to Tokyo pic.twitter.com/qfANNTaUzy
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) July 25, 2021
Trae Young looking at Team USA pic.twitter.com/6PA453OrSQ
— Josiah Johnson (@KingJosiah54) July 25, 2021
Carmelo Anthony when team USA lost pic.twitter.com/uEIBERQ32q
— Pardon My Take (@PardonMyTake) July 25, 2021