The USA have won their three group games in commanding fashion. However, LeBron James warned against taking the other opponents lightly. For the 39-year-old, Germany is also a medal contender
“There are a lot of good teams at this tournament, especially Canada and Germany, of course,” said James after the clear victory against Puerto Rico at the end of the group stage. “I was impressed with Greece because they took the fight in the last game. We had Serbia in our group and we know what they’re capable of, the same goes for Australia. We have to be on our guard. “
In contrast, the 39-year-old was less impressed by hosts France. “Their last game left me cold,” said James about France’s poor performance against Germany (71:85). “They weren’t ready for the Germans’ physical play, but I liked it better in the two games before that. “
LeBron James: “We have to be ready “
Despite the perfect group stage, coach Steve Kerr also warned of the upcoming tasks: “We did what we set out to do. We wanted to win the three games, but we also know that we have to play better. In this tournament, the further you go, the harder it gets.”
James emphasized this once again. “We know it’s going to be tough and challenging. We have to be ready for what lies ahead.” A supposedly easy task awaits the USA, at least in the quarter-finals, where the reigning Olympic champions will face Brazil. The game will take place on Tuesday, August 6, but it is still unclear what time tip-off is