Paris, FR – The United States men’s basketball team is set to face a stern test against Serbia in the semifinals of the 2024 Olympics, but injury concerns have cast a shadow over their preparations.
LeBron James left the game in the third quarter after an incidental elbow just above his left eye from Brazil’s Georginho De Paula. He needed four stitches to close it, USA coach Steve Kerr said postgame. LeBron returned to the bench in the fourth quarter — just as the crowd erupted for French swimmer Léon Marchand, who had entered the building — but did not return to the court, as the game was well in hand by that point. After the game, LeBron told ESPN’s Marc Spears, “I’m ok. I just got hit with an inadvertent elbow.”
Center Joel Embiid, a key contributor for Team USA, has been dealing with an ankle injury that has limited his practice time. While the team has managed the situation carefully, Embiid’s availability and effectiveness remain uncertain heading into the crucial matchup. His absence or limited minutes would undoubtedly impact the team’s interior defense and offensive firepower.
The stakes are high for both teams, with a spot in the gold medal game on the line. Serbia, led by the formidable Nikola Jokic, will be eager to capitalize on any vulnerabilities in the American squad. Team USA will need to rely on its depth and versatility to overcome potential challenges posed by injuries and Serbia’s formidable lineup.
The health of Embiid and the overall performance of Team USA will be closely monitored as the showdown with Serbia approaches.
