The start of the 2024 Paris Olympics has been rocky for the United States' 3x3 basketball teams, with neither the men's nor the women's squad securing a win in their first five combined games.
Struggles on the Court
The women's 3x3 team has faced significant challenges, falling to Azerbaijan, Germany, and Australia in their opening matches. Their narrow 17-15 loss to Australia on Thursday followed earlier defeats to Azerbaijan (20-17) and Germany (17-13), leaving the team at the bottom of the standings. Key players such as Cierra Burdick, Dearica Hamby, Rhyne Howard, and Hailey Van Lith have been unable to turn the tide, despite their best efforts.
Burdick, who currently plays in Spain for Valencia, expressed her disappointment post-game, saying, “I didn’t think it was going to be that ugly.” The team, which includes seasoned professionals like Hamby of the Los Angeles Sparks and Howard from the Atlanta Dream, is finding it hard to replicate the success of previous tournaments. Notably, Burdick and Van Lith were part of the squad that clinched gold at the 2023 FIBA 3x3 World Cup.
The men's side has also been unable to find their footing in their first Olympic appearance. They faced a tough 19-17 loss to Poland and a more significant 22-14 defeat at the hands of Serbia. The team, comprising Jimmer Fredette, Dylan Travis, Canyon Barry, and Kareem Maddox, had previously shown promise by finishing second to Serbia at the 2023 FIBA World Cup. However, this potential has not yet materialized into victories on the Olympic stage.
Fredette, a former NBA player with six seasons under his belt, remains optimistic despite the setbacks. “It’s a long tournament for us, and we’re excited to get back at it tomorrow,” he said after their Tuesday game.
High Hopes and Historical Context
The United States women's 3x3 team entered these Games with high expectations, especially given their gold medal performance at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In contrast, the 5x5 women's team boasts an undefeated Olympic record since 1992 and is aiming for its eighth consecutive gold medal. Stars such as A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and the legendary Diana Taurasi, who is competing in her sixth Olympic Games, headline this formidable squad.
For the 3x3 format, the games are fast-paced, lasting only 10 minutes, and played on half a court. Scoring is intense, with baskets counting for one or two points, depending on their distance from the hoop. This format has demanded quick adjustments and strategic play from the teams, who earned their spots by participating in numerous sanctioned 3x3 events throughout the year.
Adapting to Adversity
As the pool rounds continue, each 3x3 team will play seven games in total. The women's team, featuring the talents of Hamby, who plays for the Los Angeles Sparks, Howard from the Atlanta Dream, and collegiate standout Hailey Van Lith, along with veteran Burdick, hopes to find their rhythm and climb the standings.
Meanwhile, the men's team, led by experienced player Fredette, will look to leverage their training and previous successes to turn the tide in their favor. Their journey has just begun, and the remaining games offer ample opportunity for redemption and a chance to showcase their skills on the world stage.
Despite the early adversity, both teams are poised to learn and grow from each game. As the tournament progresses, the dedication, teamwork, and competitive spirit of these athletes will undoubtedly be tested, offering fans exhilarating moments and the hope of a turnaround in the coming days.