LeBron James did not plan to get chalk powder in Kevin Durant’s eyes during his iconic chalk toss ritual, but that is exactly what happened. Durant was standing next to LeBron during his chalk toss before Team USA’s game against South Sudan in London. Following the toss, the chalk would land up in his eye, prompting KD’s humorously overdone reaction.
Despite KD’s shenanigans, the chalk had no significant effects or injuries on him. While he did not play in Team USA’s game against South Sudan, he is returning from an injury and is anticipated to play his first minutes in the Olympics in Paris. LeBron James, on the other hand, was given the opportunity to play hero once again in his career.
KD got all of LeBron’s chalk toss 🤣
USA-South Sudan | 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/PiqZc6t1xv
— NBA (@NBA) July 20, 2024
LeBron James had a terrific game for Team USA, scoring 25 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists. His most critical bucket came at the end of the game, when he scored the game-winning layup to give Team USA the lead, narrowly avoiding an embarrassing and confidence-shaking loss to South Sudan.
After the win, James had a terrific response, stating that he prefers late-game scenarios and close games to blowouts because the feeling of triumph is significantly more fulfilling when it is snatched from defeat.
Team USA will hope that their troubles against a much inferior country, such as South Sudan, are an exception rather than a foreshadowing of what is to come at the Olympics. Regardless, this game demonstrates that there are some parts of their game that the team and coaches need concentrate on moving forward.
Who Can Stop Team USA from Going All the Way?
Team USA is widely regarded as the clear favorite to win the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This happens often every four years, given the country’s wealth of skill, but it’s especially true this year because they’re bringing some of the league’s finest players to the summer tournament.
Joel Embiid discussed Team USA’s chances at the event, appearing to discount their status as favorites. He mentioned that Team USA’s players are older today, but that other teams have talented players as well. It looks that Embiid is not confident in Team USA’s status as favorites.
Regardless of what Embiid believes, Team USA is the favorite for a reason. The nation is also a favorite entering any competition because it is home to the best players in the globe. However, in recent years, the world’s finest players have refused to represent them in tournaments since they interfere with their NBA off-season.
However, following their humiliating loss to Germany in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, the players chose to commit to Team USA and show the world why they are regarded as the finest. If Team USA fails to win the gold medal at the Paris Olympics, all of their hard work and bravado will be for naught.