European basketball fans have long debated whether the NBA truly stands as the best league globally. Despite most indicators suggesting it is, the proof lies in performance on the court.
Team USA will have a prime chance to demonstrate their dominance when they debut in the Olympics against one of the world’s toughest teams. Nevertheless, oddsmakers remain optimistic about their chances.
ESPN Bet on Twitter reports that the American team is favored by 13.5 points, with Serbia given +750 odds to win the game. Naturally, Team USA includes some of the NBA’s top players and should be favored against any competitor, at least on paper.
However, Serbia’s team is no pushover. Led by reigning NBA MVP Nikola Jokic, they also feature NBA players like Bogdan Bogdanovic, Vasilije Micic, and Nikola Jovic.
Team USA didn’t showcase their best form during exhibition games. They narrowly secured a one-point victory against South Sudan, despite being favored by 43.5 points before the game.
This was followed by another lackluster performance against Germany, raising concerns about their effort level if they don’t take the upcoming game as seriously as required now that it truly matters.