“That’s On Me”- Coach Steve Kerr Took The Blame For Team USA’s Narrow Escape Win Over South Sudan

July 21, 2024, 5:24pm ESTBy Afshan khan

Steve Kerr, Team USA — Steve Kerr (Photo By Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images)

Team USA narrowly won an intense pre-Olympic exhibition game against the South Sudan men’s national basketball team on Saturday, with a final score of 101-100. The South Sudan team, which gained independence 13 years ago, put up a tough competition and nearly clinched the victory. Following the game, Team USA’s coach, Steve Kerr, admitted in a post-game interview that he didn’t prepare the team well enough, taking the blame for the close call. He also praised the South Sudan players for their incredible performance.

Steve Kerr on Team USA’s near loss to South Sudan:

“I did not do a great job preparing our team… We did not focus enough on what they’re capable of, and that’s on me.”

(via @ByTimReynolds) pic.twitter.com/wFWFYTJxE6
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 21, 2024

“I did not do a great job preparing our team. We did not focus enough on what they’re capable of, and that’s on me. I think that really allowed South Sudan to gain confidence early. They were great. They played a wonderful game and the ending was good for us, just to feel that, to feel what it’s going to be like in Paris and Lille.” Kerr said during the post-game interview to Tim Reynolds.

Team USA emerged victorious in a challenging match against South Sudan, with LeBron James leading the team with 23 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists. Meanwhile, Stephen Curry contributed 11 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists. Additionally, Anthony Davis finished with 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 2 assists, and Joel Embiid scored 14 points, secured 7 rebounds, and made 3 assists.

Kerr Praises James for Dazzling Performance in Exhibition Games for Team USA

Steve Kerr has been consistently impressed with the performance of LeBron James, the star player of the Los Angeles Lakers, and has publicly praised him on multiple occasions. In a recent interview, Kerr once again commended the four-time NBA champion for his remarkable skills displayed in the exhibition games.

“Pretty amazing. I’m just blown away by his effort, concentration, and focus in every single drill. He talks. Even in a shoot-around [or] walk-through, his voice is behind the play yelling out what’s happening, yelling out the scheme. His leadership by example — the guy is incredible. I’ve known that forever, but to see it up close is pretty special.” Steve Kerr said.