Team USA almost lost to South Sudan in an exhibition game on Saturday night.
After trailing by 16 points, Team USA managed a comeback to win 101-100 at O2 Arena in London. When asked how they turned it around, Anthony Edwards gave all the credit to LeBron James.
Reporter: โ[It was] almost a miracle win for South Sudan, but you managed to stay there. What was the key for [Team USA]?โ
Anthony Edwards: โLeBron James.โ
Reporter: โ[It was] almost a miracle win for South Sudan, but you managed to stay there. What was the key for [Team USA]?โ
Anthony Edwards: โLeBron James.โ
(via @cesaremilanti)
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints)
James scored 25 points and led a crucial 23-5 run in the second half. His layup with eight seconds left secured the victory for Team USA .
LeBron’s Impact
South Sudan had never competed in Olympic basketball before this year. They have players with NBA ties, like Carlik Jones who had a triple-double with 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. Marial Shayok scored 24 points for South Sudan.
Fans might think this close game shows how even unexpected teams can shine brightly.
James praised South Sudan’s performance: “Donโt take anything away from South Sudan,” he said. “They played extremely good basketball.”
If not for LeBron’s heroics in the second half, this could have been a huge upset at the Olympics. James believes that such tough games will help Team USA improve moving forward.
What do you think about Team USAโs narrow escape?
