Team USA have been an unstoppable force in international basketball for some time now. After their disappointing loss in the 2004 Olympics, USA have won three consecutive gold medals in the Olympics. Led by the likes of Kevin Durant and Damian Lillard in the 2020 Olympics, the team is aiming for the fourth gold medal in a row.
Given how star-studded their team is, USA were clear favorites against European giants France. The game certainly started off in incredible fashion for USA. Taking a commanding 7 point-lead, Durant and Co. ended up with a 22-15 scoreline.
Watch What’s Trending Now!
While they could have extended the lead, US settled and ended up with a 45-37 scoreline against the French. But as they showed in the exhibition games, team USA went cold in the third quarter and simply had no answer for the three-point barrage by the French team.
Despite the efforts from Jrue Holiday, Durant and Co. were unable to build on the impeccable run. With the scoreline of 83-76, team USA ultimately lost the game with a 16-2 run for the French team.
READ MORE- ‘Meme Team’: Fans Blast Team USA After Embarrassing Defeat Against France At Tokyo Olympics 2020
Evan Fournier takes a dig at Kevin Durant and Co. after win
The French team is headlined by Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert. While Gobert did have an impact with 14 points and 9 rebounds, the standout performer was Evan Fournier. Fournier who is a role player for the Boston Celtics, was absolutely balling in an increased role.
While he only hit 4 of his 12 attempted three point attempts, Fournier’s mid-range shots killed the US. Scoring a game high 28 points, Fournier was crucial in giving the French the lead in third quarter. After their win against the US, the French international took a rather subtle dig at KD led team USA.
France’s Evan Fournier after beating USA Basketball in Tokyo Olympic opener: “They are better individually but they can be beaten as a team.”
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) July 25, 2021
Team USA certainly had a disappointing performance in the opener. With the likes of Kevin Durant and Damian Lillard chucking up shots, and in-form players like Khris Middleton not being given ample opportunity, the US had a head-scratcher of a performance.
With their next game coming up against a solid Iranian side, USA will be eager to have a statement victory. Can team USA win a must-win game against Iran and make a comeback?
