LeBron James Closes with 11 Straight Points in Team USA’s 92-88 Victory Over Germany in Final Pre-Olympics Exhibition

LeBron James scored Team USA’s final 11 points in a 92-88 win over Germany during a pre-Olympics exhibition on Monday in London.

James, who has been named the U.S. male flag bearer for Friday’s Olympic Opening Ceremony in Paris, finished with 20 points, six rebounds, and four assists.

The Americans concluded their pre-Olympics exhibition schedule with a perfect 5-0 record and will begin group play on Sunday at 11:15 a.m. ET against Serbia.

Team USA appeared to have control of the game in the first quarter, taking a 29-17 lead after a 21-6 run. However, Germany fought back, outscoring the U.S. 54-39 in the second and third quarters to take the lead.

In the final quarter, despite some sloppy play resulting in 14 turnovers, Team USA regained control. After Stephen Curry tied the game at 75, Devin Booker made a key block and then a layup to put the U.S. up by three.

Germany, which had eliminated Team USA in the semifinals of the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, held an 82-81 lead with just over four minutes to play. That’s when James took over, scoring a dunk to retake the lead and later hitting a crucial 3-pointer with 1:25 remaining.

James continued to dominate the boards, and his offensive presence helped secure a late cushion for Team USA.

Joel Embiid added 15 points and eight rebounds, while Curry finished with 13 points. Franz Wagner of the Orlando Magic led Germany with 18 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and three steals. His brother and Magic teammate, Moritz, contributed 12 points and seven rebounds.

Monday’s win came two days after James’ layup with eight seconds left lifted Team USA to a 101-100 victory over South Sudan. The pre-Olympics tour also included wins over Canada, Australia, and Serbia.

Team USA will now travel to Paris to continue their Olympic preparation. After facing Serbia on Sunday, they will play South Sudan on July 31 and Puerto Rico on August 3 to close out the group stage of the tournament.

The American men are aiming for their fifth consecutive gold medal and eighth in the last nine Olympics.