Sports
BASKETBALL world champions Germany suffered a narrow defeat against gold favourites U.S on Monday, going down 92-88 in their final match before the Paris Olympics.
The packed arena in London had 19,177 fans watching the German team hold a three-point lead going into the final quarter, but they ultimately lost to the star-studded U.S team.
NBA star LeBron James, 39, scored 20 points, leading the U.S team to victory and avenging their loss to Germany in the World Cup semi-final in September 2023.
Franz Wagner was the highest scorer for the German team, with 18 points.
The U.S team, considered the clear favourites to defend their title and win gold at the Olympic Games, finished their warm-up with five wins and no defeats.
Germany recorded three wins and two defeats.
After clinching bronze at the 2022 European Championships and the unexpected World Cup victory in Manila last year, Germany aim to secure their third medal in three years.
This will provide national coach Gordon Herbert with the perfect send-off.
Germany will play their first Olympic game against Japan on Saturday, while the U.S will open their tournament on Sunday against World Cup runners-up Serbia.(dpa/NAN)
A.I
July 23, 2024 @ 07:02 GMT|
Tags: Franz Wagner
