The United States' 3x3 basketball teams, both men’s and women’s, have encountered a rocky start at the 2024 Paris Olympics, failing to secure a win in their initial five combined games. The women's team, in particular, has struggled, facing losses against Azerbaijan, Germany, and Australia.
Women's Team Faces Challenges
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the women's team fell to Australia 17-15 on Thursday. Earlier in the week, they experienced a 20-17 defeat to Azerbaijan on Wednesday and succumbed to Germany 17-13 on Tuesday. These consecutive losses have positioned the team at the bottom of the standings.
Cierra Burdick, a key player on the women's team, voiced her frustration after their game against Germany, stating, “I didn’t think it was going to be that ugly.” Her sentiment echoes the shock and disappointment felt by the team and its supporters. Burdick, along with teammates Dearica Hamby, Rhyne Howard, and Hailey Van Lith, has been striving to regain the form that led them to gold at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup.
The women's team comprises talented players from various backgrounds: Dearica Hamby represents the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA, Rhyne Howard plays for the Atlanta Dream, while Hailey Van Lith is still in college. Cierra Burdick, having recently transitioned to play in Spain for Valencia, brings a wealth of international experience. Despite their individual prowess, the team has yet to find its rhythm in Paris.
Men's Team Struggles in Debut
The men's 3x3 basketball team, making its first appearance in the Olympic Games, has also had a tough start. They lost 19-17 to Poland and 22-14 to Serbia in their opening matches. Jimmer Fredette, a seasoned NBA player with six seasons under his belt, remains optimistic despite the setbacks. After Tuesday's game, he remarked, “It’s a long tournament for us, and we’re excited to get back at it tomorrow.”
Joining Fredette on the men's team are Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox. This core group finished second to Serbia at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and underwent a rigorous training camp in February to prepare for the Olympics. Their performance in the first two games has not mirrored their previous successes, but they remain hopeful for a turnaround.
Understanding 3x3 Basketball
The 3x3 basketball format is distinctive and requires teams to adapt quickly. Games are played on half the court with a 10-minute game format. Scoring is simplified, with baskets counting for one or two points. Players earn their spots on the team through participation in sanctioned 3x3 events throughout the year, ensuring a high level of competition and skill.
Each 3x3 team has seven games scheduled in the pool round, providing ample opportunities to improve and advance. Despite the early losses, both the men's and women's teams have multiple chances to recalibrate and perform better in the upcoming matches.
Women's 5x5 Team Shines Bright
Contrary to the struggles faced by the 3x3 teams, the USA women’s 5x5 basketball team boasts an impeccable Olympic record, remaining undefeated since 1992. They are on a quest for their eighth consecutive gold medal, showcasing the depth of talent in American women’s basketball. Featuring stars like A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and veteran Diana Taurasi, who is participating in her sixth Olympic Games, the 5x5 team serves as a beacon of success and inspiration.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the USA's 3x3 teams to see if they can bounce back from their initial setbacks. The women's team, having won gold in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, knows what it takes to win at this level and will look to draw on that experience. Meanwhile, the men's team aims to make a mark in their inaugural Olympic run.