In a spectacular display of basketball prowess, Team USA demolished Brazil 122-87 to secure their place in the semi-finals of the Paris Olympics. The standout moment of the game came when Kevin Durant cemented his legacy as the United States' all-time leading scorer at the Olympic Games.
Durant's 11 points in just 21 minutes pushed his total to 489, surpassing Lisa Leslie's record of 488 and making him the highest-scoring American basketball player, male or female, in Olympic history. This achievement underscores Durant's incredible impact on the game and his pivotal role in the team’s success.
While Durant's record-setting performance was a highlight, Joel Embiid also shone brightly on the court. Despite facing a hostile crowd of French fans—who were displeased after Embiid opted out of playing for their national team—he made a significant impact with 14 points and seven rebounds in the first half, helping to set the tone for the USA’s dominant victory.
LeBron James also contributed to the team’s success, showcasing his playmaking skills with nine assists and 12 points. However, his game was cut short when he took an elbow to the face from Brazilian player Georginho De Paula. Despite the early exit, James' orchestration of the game in his 12 minutes on the floor demonstrated his invaluable role in the team’s offensive strategy.
As Team USA heads into the semi-finals, their performance against Brazil has not only highlighted their dominance but also underscored the individual brilliance of their star players. With Durant now holding the record for the most Olympic points by an American player, the team looks poised to continue their strong run in the tournament.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Olympics progress, and follow the medal table and schedule for the latest results.