Jimmer Fredette and Co. Go Down to World No. 1 Serbia in 3x3 Opener
PARIS — The highly anticipated return of Jimmer Fredette to the Olympic stage encountered a significant roadblock as the U.S. men’s 3x3 basketball team succumbed to the top-ranked Serbian squad, losing 22-14 in their opening match during the Paris Olympics. With high hopes mounting for the revival of "Jimmermania," Fredette's performance fell short of expectations, contributing just four points on five attempts, while Serbia showcased their dominance in the discipline.
The clash between the U.S. and Serbia served as an exciting early test for two of the tournament’s gold medal favorites, setting the stage for intense competition. The turning point of the game materialized with just under five minutes left on the clock, when U.S. player Canyon Barry was called for an unsportsmanlike foul following a spin move in the paint that inadvertently made contact with Serbian defender Mihailo Vasic. Although Vasic converted only one of his two free throws, the Serbians seized the opportunity to maintain possession and swiftly extended their lead to 15-11 with a one-point shot from Marko Brankovic. From that moment forward, the U.S. struggled to find their rhythm, and Serbia ultimately delivered a crushing blow with Strahinja Stojacic’s two-point shot from deep.
Fredette, reflecting on the game, acknowledged that Serbia executed their game plan more effectively than his team. “We got to that foul count really early,” he remarked. “When that happens, they kept getting easy baskets. The fouls led them to the free-throw line and allowed them to extend their lead.” His sentiments encapsulated the challenges faced by the U.S. — a combination of missed opportunities, a lack of defensive control, and Serbia’s efficient execution.
Two summers prior, Fredette turned to 3x3 basketball when approached by USA Basketball’s Fran Fraschilla. He accepted the opportunity with an unwavering resolve, stating, “As soon as I heard ‘Olympics,’ I was like, ‘I'm all in.’” This Olympic stage marked a significant chapter in his career, reflecting a drive to make a mark on international competition. While age may have altered his appearance since his college days at BYU, where he dazzled fans with his explosive style of play, many elements of his game have remained consistent. Early on in the match, he thrilled the French crowd with a step-back jumper from beyond the arc and demonstrated his signature flair with no-look assists reminiscent of his collegiate performances.
As the game progressed, however, the Serbian defense grew increasingly effective at stifling Fredette’s attempts to create scoring opportunities. His frustration became evident when he missed a wide-open layup at a critical moment, with the U.S. trailing 17-12.
Despite the disappointing start, Fredette remains optimistic about the U.S. team’s potential to rebound. “We have a long way to go,” he noted, alluding to the remaining six games in pool play. The structure of the competition allows the top two teams in the group to advance directly to the semifinals, while the next four will contend for play-in positions, keeping hope alive for the U.S. team’s journey in the tournament.
As the spotlight turns to their next challenge, the U.S. will face Poland on Wednesday night, providing an opportunity to regain momentum. The road to Olympic glory is often fraught with challenges, but for Fredette and his teammates, this is just the beginning of what promises to be an exhilarating and unpredictable 3x3 basketball journey in Paris.