THREE POINTER:

• Victory in Vegas: Team USA clinches a win against Canada, 80-72.
• Star Power: LeBron James and Steph Curry lead, with Durant sidelined.
• Road Ahead: Next stops include UAE and London before Paris 2024.

A Stellar Start

The USA Basketball Men’s National Team (USABMNT) kicked off their pre-Olympic campaign with a solid win in Las Vegas, defeating Canada 80-72. This match marked their first appearance since the official roster announcement for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris 2024.

Star-Studded Lineup

LeBron James and Steph Curry were in the starting lineup, bringing their A-game to the forefront. However, Kevin Durant was notably absent due to a calf strain, leaving some room for the bench players to shine. Each substitute brought their NBA all-star experience to the court, contributing significantly to the team’s performance.

> “The depth of our team is incredible, and every player brings something unique to the court,” remarked one of the coaches post-game.

On the Road Again

The journey doesn’t stop here for the USABMNT. They’re set to travel to the United Arab Emirates next, where they will face Australia and Serbia in scrimmage tune-up games in Abu Dhabi. These matches are crucial as they gear up for their final two friendly encounters in London, leading up to their first Olympic group stage game against Serbia on July 28.

Canada’s Lineup Unveiled

On the other side, the Canadian team also showcased their finalized roster ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics. Led by captain Kelly Olynyk, the team includes notable NBA players like RJ Barrett and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, promising a strong competition in the upcoming games.

What’s Next?

As Team USA gears up for their next encounters, all eyes will be on how they adjust their strategies and manage the player rotations. With Kevin Durant’s return anticipated, the dynamics on the court are expected to shift, hopefully leading the team to a successful Olympic run.

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