A Challenging Start for USA 3x3 Basketball Teams at Paris 2024
The United States men's and women's 3x3 basketball teams find themselves in a difficult position early in the 2024 Paris Olympics, with both squads failing to secure a win in their first five combined games.
Women's Team Struggles
The women's 3x3 team has faced a tough schedule, falling short in matches against Azerbaijan, Germany, and Australia. Their latest defeat came early Thursday, when they narrowly lost 17-15 to Australia. This followed a 20-17 loss to Azerbaijan on Wednesday and a 17-13 setback against Germany on Tuesday. Currently, the team is grappling with its position at the bottom of the standings.
Cierra Burdick, a key player on the women's team, expressed her disappointment after their game against Germany, stating, “I didn’t think it was going to be that ugly.” Despite the rough start, the players are determined to turn their performance around in the remaining games.
Bolstering the team are WNBA talents Dearica Hamby from the Los Angeles Sparks and Rhyne Howard from the Atlanta Dream. Hamby stepped in to replace Sparks rookie Cameron Brink, who is out for the rest of the WNBA season due to a torn ACL. Hailey Van Lith, still in college, and Cierra Burdick, who now plays in Spain for Valencia, round out the squad. Burdick and Van Lith were part of the team that clinched gold at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup.
Men's Team Faces Early Setbacks
The men's 3x3 team has also had a challenging start, losing 19-17 to Poland and suffering a 22-14 defeat at the hands of Serbia. This is a significant moment for the men’s 3x3 team as it marks their first appearance in the Olympic Games. Jimmer Fredette, who played six seasons in the NBA and has been a standout for the team, remains optimistic despite the early setbacks. “It’s a long tournament for us, and we’re excited to get back at it tomorrow,” Fredette said after Tuesday's game.
Alongside Fredette, the men’s roster includes Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox. Their journey to Paris came through a solid performance at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, where they finished second to Serbia. Hoping to change their fortunes, the team aims to leverage their experience from a rigorous training camp held in February.
The Nature of 3x3 Basketball
3x3 basketball, known for its intense, fast-paced nature, uses only half the court and features a 10-minute game format. Scoring is unique, with baskets counting for one or two points, adding an additional layer of strategy and excitement. Players earn spots on the team by participating in more sanctioned 3x3 events throughout the year, a rule that ensures only the most dedicated and seasoned players make the cut.
A Glance at Past Successes and Current Challenges
While the 3x3 teams face early adversity, the history of American basketball offers a contrasting narrative of dominance. The USA women's 3x3 team captured gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, a testament to their capability and potential. The current roster, despite its struggles, includes players with a proven track record of success. Moreover, the USA women's 5x5 team, which boasts an undefeated Olympic record since 1992, is eyeing its eighth consecutive gold medal. Featuring stars like A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and the legendary Diana Taurasi—who is competing in her sixth Olympic Games—this team continues to set the gold standard in women’s basketball.
As the pool round progresses, both the men's and women's 3x3 teams have opportunities to improve and secure victories. With seven games scheduled for each team in the pool round, there is still time to make a comeback and advance in the competition. The resilience and talent of these athletes will undoubtedly be put to the test as they strive to represent the United States on the Olympic stage.