In a surprising turn of events at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the United States men's and women's 3x3 basketball teams have faced major setbacks, failing to secure a win in their first five combined games. While their journey has been arduous, both squads remain resolute in the face of adversity, ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
Women's Team Struggles
The women's 3x3 team has had a particularly tough time, with losses to Azerbaijan, Germany, and Australia leaving them at the bottom of the standings. The narrow defeat against Australia, with a score of 17-15, epitomizes the intense competition they have encountered. Even the talented quartet of Dearica Hamby, Rhyne Howard, Hailey Van Lith, and Cierra Burdick haven't managed to turn the tide in their favor.
Burdick, a key player for the team who now plays for Valencia in Spain, expressed the team's frustrations succinctly after their game against Germany: “I didn’t think it was going to be that ugly.” Despite this setback, Burdick and Van Lith, both instrumental in clinching the gold at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup, will undoubtedly draw from their past successes as they aim to rally their teammates.
Adding to the team's credentials, Dearica Hamby brings her experience from the Los Angeles Sparks, while Rhyne Howard hails from the Atlanta Dream. Notably, Hailey Van Lith is still in college, further illustrating the diverse backgrounds of the team members. Their combined efforts, however, have yet to coalesce into the victories that fans have come to expect from the USA's storied basketball tradition.
Men's Team: A Rocky Start
The men’s 3x3 team has also encountered its share of difficulties. In their first Olympic appearance, the squad suffered defeats against Poland and Serbia, with a close 19-17 loss to Poland and a more decisive 22-14 setback against Serbia. Given their impressive second-place finish to Serbia in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, expectations were high for the team comprised of Jimmer Fredette, Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox.
Fredette, a seasoned NBA player with six years under his belt, remains optimistic. After Tuesday’s game, he shared his thoughts: “It’s a long tournament for us, and we’re excited to get back at it tomorrow.” This positive outlook might just be the catalyst needed for turning their fortunes around as the tournament progresses.
The men's team underwent rigorous preparation, including a training camp in February, in hopes of achieving Olympic success. Their collaborative efforts reflect the underlying structure of 3x3 basketball, which requires players to participate in numerous sanctioned events throughout the year to earn their spots on the team.
A Game Like No Other
Both teams have had to adapt to the unique structure of 3x3 basketball, a format distinct from traditional 5x5 games. Played on half a court with a 10-minute game duration, 3x3 basketball demands rapid pacing and strategic play. Scoring is simplified, with baskets counting for one or two points, making every shot crucial.
The USA women's 3x3 team has a proud history, including a gold medal victory at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. This legacy looms large as the current squad aims to emulate past triumphs. Moreover, the USA women’s 5x5 team boasts an undefeated Olympic record since 1992 and is vying for its eighth consecutive gold medal. Star players like A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and the legendary Diana Taurasi, who is making her sixth Olympic appearance, represent the continued dominance of USA basketball on the global stage.
As the pool round continues, each 3x3 team has seven games scheduled, providing ample opportunity for the U.S. squads to regroup and make a strong push. With dedicated athletes who have proven their mettle in previous competitions, there remains a glimmer of hope that both the men's and women's teams can overcome their rocky starts and forge paths to Olympic success.