The United States men's and women's 3x3 basketball teams are off to a troubling start at the 2024 Paris Olympics, with both squads falling in their first five combined games. This early setback raises questions about their performance and prospects as the tournament progresses.
Women's Team Struggles in Pool Round
The women's 3x3 team has faced defeats in their initial three games, placing them at the bottom of the standings. The team suffered a 17-15 loss to Australia on Thursday, a 20-17 defeat to Azerbaijan on Wednesday, and a 17-13 loss to Germany on Tuesday. The series of losses has been particularly unexpected for a squad featuring standout players like Cierra Burdick, who commented on the performance after their defeat by Germany, stating, “I didn’t think it was going to be that ugly.”
Key players Dearica Hamby, who plays for the Los Angeles Sparks, Rhyne Howard from the Atlanta Dream, Hailey Van Lith, who is still in college, and Burdick, now with Valencia in Spain, round out the women's team. Burdick and Van Lith were instrumental in the team’s victory at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup, making their current struggles even more surprising.
Men's Team Faces Tough Competition
The men's 3x3 team experienced similar challenges with an 0-2 start in their first-ever Olympic appearance. The squad lost 19-17 to Poland and 22-14 to the formidable Serbian team. Jimmer Fredette, a former NBA player, expressed a cautious optimism after their loss to Poland: “It’s a long tournament for us, and we’re excited to get back at it tomorrow.”
The men’s roster, which includes Fredette, Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox, had high hopes following their second-place finish to Serbia at the 2023 FIBA World Cup. The team also held a training camp in February, aiming to refine their skills for the Olympic challenge. Despite the rocky start, the players remain committed to proving their mettle on the global stage.
Understanding 3x3 Basketball
3x3 basketball, distinct from its traditional 5x5 counterpart, is played on half a court with a 10-minute game format. Scoring is simpler, with baskets counting for either one or two points. The game’s rapid pace and condensed gameplay create a unique set of demands on players, often requiring quick adaptability and sharp strategic moves. Each team in the pool round is scheduled to play seven games, offering some opportunity for the U.S. teams to redeem their early losses.
Legacy and Expectations
The USA women's 3x3 team is no stranger to Olympic success, having secured gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Additionally, Burdick and Van Lith's recent triumph at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup underscored their potential to excel on the Olympic stage. However, their current form has raised concerns about their ability to reclaim the top spot.
The men's team, making their debut in the Olympic 3x3 tournament, is navigating a steep learning curve against seasoned international competitors. Despite their setbacks, the experience they’re gaining could prove invaluable for future competitions.
Among the women's players, Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream and Dearica Hamby of the Los Angeles Sparks bring a wealth of professional experience. Cierra Burdick’s tenure in Spain with Valencia and Hailey Van Lith’s ongoing college career add varied but substantial skills to the team. The men's squad, led by Fredette’s six-season NBA career, features a mix of professional and emerging talent, each player having earned their spot through numerous sanctioned 3x3 events throughout the year.
Hopeful Outlook
While the initial games have not gone in favor of either U.S. team, the tournament's format provides ample opportunity to turn things around. Both squads are determined to improve and leverage their talents to challenge their opponents more effectively. The coming days will be crucial in defining their path in the 2024 Paris Olympics and potentially reshaping the narratives of their campaigns.