France, a team that Team USA could face for gold, is not a concern or threat to the United States basketball team. That’s according to LeBron James, who is seen as one of the main leaders of this group.
After seeing their recent game against Germany, which features Franz Wagner, James isn’t worried due to their lack of physicality and overall play—at least compared to the USA.
“I wasn’t very impressed with their last game. I didn’t think they were ready for the physicality of Germany. Other than that, they were playing some good ball.”
This question concerned them, Canada, Germany, and seemingly other teams. So, with that in mind, it appears LeBron is considering those other teams better competition than France.
Germany finished group play with a 3-0 record, while France did not. They ended with a 2-1 record due to Germany beating them 85-71.
Team USA also finished 3-0 in their group play by blowing out Peurto Rico in Saturday’s matchup; they are scheduled to face Brazil in the Olympic quarterfinals on Tuesday at 3:30 PM EST.
France will be tested again. Their next game will be against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and RJ Barrett’s Team Canada. Victor Wembanyama, Rudy Gobert, and the company must prove themselves.
Many will argue that the United States is the final boss, as LeBron James and the company hope to beat Brazil and find their way to compete for gold. France will have many obstacles, so let’s see if LeBron’s scouting/comments will hold up as time passes.
Also, for those looking into the future, two teams will compete for gold on August 10th. If France and the United States win their next two games, they’ll face off on that scheduled date.
