Sunday afternoon, 2:45 ET, the maligned men’s Olympic basketball team plays for their 3rd consecutive Gold Metal. They play Serbia after taking down Spain Friday in what was thought to be their toughest test. They should beat Serbia handily. But this team is no where near the dominant team in recent years. Many questions are being asked why this years team does not excel as in past years.
Saturday the Women’s Olympic team won their 6th straight gold medal. Again they outclassed easily all their opponents. Why are they so good? They play more as a team. A much more experienced and cohesive team. Plus, they are no nonsense bunch. Their purpose for being there is to win. Not to take a vacation. It’s dedication.
On the contrary, the USA Men’s team has rather staggered through their competition, but still winning. Why don’t they play as well as the ladies? Two main reasons: 1. the most talented players from the NBA are not in Rio. Said Lebron James after watching this less talented and more taking things in stride team….”I should have played there.” 2. They do not play together very well as a team. Some reports are the players are out too late and too often. Reports indicate some players feel they are on a vacation. Being quartered on a cruise ship, one would think it would make them more cohesive. They are not. Hall of Fame Duke Coach Mike Krzyewski has had his hands full trying to mold these players into a true team concept.
Will they win gold for the 3rd straight time on Sunday? Sure. Serbia is not Spain. Lately the USA have played better as they had to do. Thank goodness for Kevin Durant. A true dedicated pro who always plays hard. A real winner. So they will roll along into another Gold Medal on Sunday. Coach K. should get two Gold Metals for working with this bunch. Let’s hope Carmelo Anthony gets his act together and plays to his potential. But, even if he doesn’t it won’t matter. Even our 2nd string NBA players are better than their competition. And yet, somehow that 3rd straight Gold Metal for the men’s Olympic basketball team this year will seem a bit tarnished.
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