Kevin Durant Worrying about which superstar player might not play on a given night isn’t Team USA’s problem—it could end up being their trademark.
This team’s unrelenting depth continues to create challenges for the coaching staff as they manage rotations, but it fuels the Americans in their quest for a fifth consecutive gold medal.
Depth Leads to Victory Over South Sudan
On Wednesday, Team USA’s depth once again proved crucial in a 103-86 victory against the upstart South Sudan team, securing their spot in next week’s quarterfinals with a 2-0 record in Olympic play.
The American bench was formidable, contributing 66 points compared to South Sudan’s 14, and initiating two pivotal runs that defined the game.
Bench Stars Shine Bright
Former NBA MVP Joel Embiid went from starter to not playing at all on Wednesday. Jayson Tatum, who was benched in the previous game, started this time. As a result, Bam Adebayo, benefiting from Embiid’s absence, delivered perhaps his best performance with the national team. Adebayo scored 18 points on 8-of-10 shooting and grabbed seven rebounds, leading six players who scored in double figures.
U.S. coach Steve Kerr emphasized this approach, stating, “We have an embarrassment of riches on this roster. These guys are all champions, All-Stars, Hall of Famers. The key is commitment to the goal. That’s it.”
Key Contributions from Kevin Durant and White
Kevin Durant came off the bench to deliver his usual offensive firepower with 14 points. Derrick White added 10 points, three steals, and a block, showcasing his excellent defensive skills.
In the previous game against Serbia, Durant’s entry off the bench in the first quarter was a turning point. Similarly, against South Sudan, with the score tied 10-10 six minutes into the game, Kerr’s substitutions made a significant impact.
Starting Lineup Highlights
It’s natural to focus on who starts these high-profile games, especially when the lineup includes stars like LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Anthony Davis, boasting six MVPs and nine championship rings among them. However, the true strength of this roster lies in its depth.
When Kevin Durant , White, Adebayo, Jrue Holiday, and Anthony Edwards took the court, the game’s dynamics shifted. This group excelled defensively and maintained offensive prowess.
“I think Steve trusts us,” Adebayo said. “He sees the bench as a spark, and we delivered tonight.”
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South Sudan’s Efforts and Future Prospects
South Sudan, with its athleticism and former NBA players, is a compelling and dangerous team with a bright future. However, they couldn’t match the depth of Team USA. The American bench, including Devin Booker, went on a decisive 23-4 run during the first and second quarters, effectively deciding the game. When South Sudan cut the lead from 19 points to 10 in the second half, the bench extended it back to 16 by the end of the third quarter.
Starters Seal the Deal
James, Davis, and Booker, who combined for 30 points, made key plays in the final stretch to maintain a comfortable lead.
Kerr announced that Embiid and Holiday would return to the starting lineup for Saturday’s game against Puerto Rico. Acknowledging the second-guessing of his lineup decisions, Kerr made it clear he was focused on the goal.
“The NBA is hugely popular worldwide, and the regular season often becomes a soap opera, amplified by social media,” Kerr said. “But we need to give these guys credit. They’re here to win a gold medal. They’re pros and committed to each other.”
