US Narrowly Escapes South Sudan Upset with Thrilling 101-100 Victory

South Sudan, which gained its independence just 13 years ago, had a chance to win it.

LONDON, UK — LeBron James saved the U.S. from a stunning loss.

James’ layup with 8 seconds left was the decisive basket, securing a narrow 101-100 victory for the U.S. Olympic team against South Sudan on Saturday in London. The Americans rallied back from a 16-point deficit to avoid a significant upset.

South Sudan, having gained independence only 13 years ago, had an opportunity to clinch the game. Carlik Jones attempted a shot off the glass with 4 seconds remaining but missed.

James ended the game with 23 points, six rebounds, and six assists. Anthony Davis added 15 points for the Americans, who now stand 4-0 in their pre-Olympic exhibition tour with one game left.

On the opposing side, Marial Shayok topped all scorers with 25 points for South Sudan, while Jones recorded a triple-double — 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists.

The teams are set to face off again in group play during the Paris Olympics on July 31.

JT Thor’s 3-pointer with 20 seconds left gave South Sudan a 100-99 lead. The Americans called a timeout, put the ball in James’ hands, and he waited before executing an effortless layup to regain the lead. The U.S. team’s final stop secured their victory.

What truly shifted the momentum was an 18-0 run in the second half, largely orchestrated by James. This turned a 76-65 deficit into an 83-76 lead.

South Sudan, 43.5-point underdogs according to BetMGM Sportsbook, led by 16 points late in the first half — 58-42. The Americans managed to reduce this gap to 14 points by halftime.

The game initially appeared to be a mismatch, although not in the anticipated manner. The U.S. roster, composed entirely of NBA All-Stars or champions, came in with a wealth of experience and accomplishments. South Sudan, however, has only four players who have appeared in NBA games.

The U.S. team started strong, leading 8-0 after 2.5 minutes, but South Sudan dominated the remainder of the first half. The Americans allowed South Sudan to shoot 61%, got outscored from 3-point range, and struggled with turnovers.

The 18-0 run salvaged the game for the U.S. James contributed four assists during this period. Stephen Curry’s long-range 3-pointer late in the third quarter gave the U.S. its first lead since the first quarter.

Wenyan Gabriel’s 3-pointer brought South Sudan within one point, but James responded with a 3-pointer, ensuring the Americans could hold on for the win.

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