US blow past Brazil into basketball semi-finals

The United States showcased their prowess without fully engaging, decisively defeating Brazil 122-87 on Tuesday, thereby advancing to the semi-finals of the Paris Olympics.

This comfortable victory keeps the U.S. on course for a fifth consecutive gold medal and sets the stage for an intriguing semi-final clash against Serbia, who secured their spot with an overtime victory over Australia.

This upcoming match will be a rematch of the gold medal final from the 2016 Rio Summer Games, featuring the United States' LeBron James, a four-time NBA Most Valuable Player, against the reigning three-time MVP, Nikola Jokic.

In the other semi-final, France will compete against Germany on Thursday.

While Brazil posed little threat to contest the quarter-final, the U.S. also did not seem to operate at full capacity, remaining in a state of controlled performance.

The formidable Americans provided just enough flair to keep the enthusiastic crowd engaged, delivering a spectacle that blended entertainment with athleticism.

In contrast, the earlier match between France and Canada was filled with excitement, characterized by a fast-paced and physical style that energized the arena from start to finish.

After establishing a 33-21 lead in the first quarter and launching a quick 7-0 run at the beginning of the second, the U.S. eased off the intensity but still went into halftime with a commanding 63-36 advantage.

With the result no longer in question, the U.S. maintained their lead, allowing every player to contribute to the score, led by Devin Booker with 18 points, Anthony Edwards with 17, and LeBron James with 12.

Kevin Durant added 11 points, making him the all-time leading Olympic scorer for the United States, regardless of gender.