“I like getting tested” - LeBron James sends bold message after clinching win over South Sudan with clutch basket
LeBron James and Team USA were given another scare in their pre-Olympics exhibition tour. The Americans needed James to hit a go-ahead shot with time expiring to seal a 101-100 win over South Sudan.
As James and other members of Team USA returned to the locker room, the Lakers star shared his thoughts on the close win.
“To be honest I like those ones better than the blowouts, at least we’re getting tested. I like being tested. Those are the best ones.” LeBron James stated after scoring the game-winning basket.
James had the ball with under 10 seconds left, needing a basket down 100-99. He converted a tough layup, putting Team USA ahead 101-100 with eight seconds left.
LeBron James and Team USA forced a missed floater followed by two missed putback attempts to hold on for the tightly contested win.
James finished with 23 points, shooting 69.2% from the field and 70% from behind the arc, finishing 7/10. James also finished with six rebounds, and six assists which led the team.
Team USA's biggest deficit was 16 points, before a comeback, led by James, brought them all the way back to just a one-point deficit with eight seconds left.
James got help from his Lakers teammate Anthony Davis, who scored 15 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, as well as Joel Embiid, who added 14 points.
LeBron James blows away Steve Kerr with preparation for 2024 Olympics
If you ask Steve Kerr, it’s no surprise to see LeBron leading Team USA, as the 39-year-old has reportedly “blown away” the Golden State Warriors head coach.
Speaking on James’ preparation for the Olympics, Kerr stated,
“Pretty amazing, I’m just blown away by his effort, concentration and focus in every single drill.”
Team USA has yet to lose a preparation game leading up to the Olympics, in large part due to James’ effort. In their four preparation games thus far, LeBron James has recorded 12.8 points, 3.5 assists and 3.5 rebounds in 21.0 minutes per game.
The Olympics officially tip-off on the 27th, with Team USA squaring off the following day versus Serbia on July 28.
James is eyeing his 3rd Olympic gold medal, winning the gold in 2008 and 2012, leading the team in assists with 5.6 per game in 2012. Following that, James elected to sit out of the Olympics in 2016 and 2020.