LeBron James Clutch Layup Saves Team USA from South Sudan Upset

Where is South Sudan? You might wonder, but after their recent game against Team USA, you probably won’t forget them now.

South Sudan’s Near Upset

If not for LeBron James’ last-second heroics, the American team might have lost 101-100 at the O2 Arena. South Sudan, who led by 16 points at one point, truly lived up to their nickname ‘Bright Stars’.

Dramatic Game Moments

The game was intense. Former Hornets player JT Thor nearly made a deep shot with just 20 seconds left but missed, sparing Team USA from defeat.

Coach Kerr recognizing the team after last night’s exhibition.

— South Sudan Basketball (@SSBFed)

Kerr Takes Responsibility

After the match, Steve Kerr admitted he didn’t prepare his team well enough. “I did not do a great job preparing our team,” he said. “We didn’t focus enough on what they’re capable of and that’s on me.”

“They played a wonderful game and the ending was good for us just to feel that,” Kerr added. “It’s a good reminder that when we play against teams, it’s the biggest game of their lives.”

LeBron’s Leadership Shines

If it wasn’t for LeBron James leading even at 39 years old, Team USA might have lost. He scored 25 points and led a crucial run late in the game.

“Don’t take nothing away from South Sudan,” LeBron said this weekend. “They played extremely good basketball and that’s why the game is won in between the lines and not all on paper.”

Curry’s Contribution

Steph Curry also helped with two key three-pointers. “We can be beat if we don’t play our brand of basketball,” Curry noted after scoring 12 points.

Halftime Struggles and Turnaround

Kerr revealed that his team felt embarrassed at halftime as they were down by 14 points to South Sudan. He decided not to play leaders like James into the third quarter to give others a chance.

“I think the whole team was embarrassed at halftime,” Kerr shared. “And I don’t think [James] was thrilled about me not starting him in the third quarter.” But once LeBron got back in, he went to work brilliantly.

Pride of South Sudan Coach Royal Ivey

South Sudan coach Royal Ivey couldn’t hide his pride for his team’s performance against gold-medal contenders USA. He hopes to carry this energy into future games.

“We want to take this momentum [to the Olympics],” said Ivey confidently. “We didn’t flinch.”

Fans love seeing underdogs perform so well!