In a highly anticipated match at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Team USA men's basketball team will kick off their group play against Serbia, led by the formidable Nikola Jokic. This clash between basketball powerhouses is sure to draw attention, although there is uncertainty surrounding the availability of U.S. big man Joel Embiid due to illness.

Fresh off his third NBA MVP award in four seasons, Jokic poses a significant challenge to the American squad. Embiid, who won the MVP award in 2023 and was the runner-up in the previous two years to Jokic, missed practice on Saturday due to illness. However, coach Steve Kerr remains hopeful that Embiid will be able to participate in the star-studded matchup.

Despite missing Kevin Durant in the pre-Olympic tune-up games due to a calf injury, Team USA boasts a roster filled with star power. The likes of LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Edwards, and first-time Olympian Steph Curry are expected to lead the charge for the team, aiming to secure their fifth consecutive gold medal.

While the U.S. team has faced some challenges in recent exhibition games, narrowly defeating Australia, South Sudan, and Germany, they are still considered favorites to emerge victorious in this year's Olympics. The clash against Serbia will serve as an early test for the American squad.

Aside from basketball, there are numerous other exciting events to look forward to on Day 2 of the Paris 2024 Olympics. Lee Kiefer, the defending gold medalist in women's foil fencing, will aim to defend her title. The beach volleyball tournament, taking place at the foot of the iconic Eiffel Tower, will showcase the talents of the leading American duo, Sarah Hughes and Kelly Cheng, as they seek to add an Olympic gold to their already impressive resume.

In the women's gymnastics qualification round, the U.S. team will be vying for spots in the all-around final. With two Olympic all-around gold medalists, Simone Biles and Suni Lee, already leading the way, the competition promises to be intense.

Swimming finals, featuring Team USA's Nic Fink in the men's 100 breaststroke and Gretchen Walsh in the women's 100 butterfly, are scheduled for 2:30 p.m. ET. Meanwhile, the USWNT will face Germany in a highly anticipated soccer match at 3 p.m. ET.

The women's rugby tournament will kick off with the U.S. team facing Japan and Brazil, while the women's street final in skateboarding, the women's cross-country mountain bike race, and the women's kayak single finals in canoe slalom are set to captivate viewers with their thrilling displays of athletic prowess.

As the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics continue to unfold, fans from around the world eagerly anticipate the outcome of these remarkable sporting events. With Team USA facing Serbia on the basketball court, and a multitude of other world-class competitions, Day 2 promises to deliver excitement and exceptional performances for millions of spectators.

Mitch Goldich, a respected writer and editor for Sports Illustrated, will provide comprehensive coverage of the Olympic games, bringing his expertise and insights to the forefront of the sports world. His dedicated coverage will ensure that fans stay informed and engaged with the exhilarating journey of the Paris 2024 Olympics.