olympics-en : Olympic Games Paris 2024: USA Defeats Puerto Rico and Faces Brazil in Basketball Quarterfinals
Icaro
In a decisive match at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the USA men's basketball team claimed a victory over Puerto Rico with a score of 104-83 at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium in the final round of Group C. This win secured the American Dream Team's qualification as the top seed with a perfect record of 100%, setting them up for a quarterfinal clash against Brazil.
Anthony Edwards led the scoring with 26 points, supported by Joel Embiid (15), Kevin Durant (11), LeBron James (10), and Anthony Davis (10) all reaching double figures for the USA. On the opposing side, Jose Alvarado contributed 18 points for Puerto Rico.
The upcoming quarterfinals will take place on Tuesday at the Bercy Arena, with the game times to be determined after the conclusion of the group stage on Saturday. This matchup will mark the tenth meeting between the USA and Brazil in Olympic basketball history, with the Americans holding a record of nine victories, including encounters during the era of the Dream Team in Barcelona 1992 and Atlanta 1996.
Coach Steve Kerr rotated the roster, reintroducing Joel Embiid to the starting lineup. Despite a strong start by the Puerto Ricans, the USA team rallied in the second quarter, led by strong performances from Davis, Durant, Curry, James, and Edwards, ultimately taking control of the game.
With a comfortable lead in the last quarter, the USA team maintained their dominance, even allowing room for Embiid to engage with the crowd. Social media was buzzing with anticipation for the clash between the USA and Brazil, with fans expressing a mix of confidence, excitement, and skepticism ahead of the highly anticipated quarterfinal showdown.
*Social Media Comments:*
- "Brazil will dominate the USA, just need to keep a close eye on these players..."
- "Embiid better watch out for those fouls."
- "We need a few more players to take on the USA team!"
- "If you believe in a Brazilian victory, you need professional help!"
- "The Americans will be in for a surprise."
- "They better be ready. The USA won't get a good night's sleep until Tuesday."
- "Losing to the best is one thing. But imagine if Brazil pulls off the win!"
- "Just need to have faith! Haha."
- "It's going to be a historic showdown for the Americans! Get your selfies ready."
The tension and excitement are mounting as the stage is set for an epic showdown between the basketball powerhouses of the USA and Brazil at the Paris 2024 Olympics.