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Did LeBron's leadership save USA Basketball from embarrassment, or was it a team effort all along?

Five games, five wins. Team USA had a spotless exhibition run as the supernovas learned and evolved as a team. Now, the time for preparation is over. The hike for glory and pride now begins. The star-laden group, led by LeBron James and Stephen Curry, ended their short London stay with two anxiety-giving wins over South Sudan and FIBA World Cup champs Germany. Now it’s time for the last stop.

And their journey is underway.

After the brief stop in London to complete their showcase schedule, the fleet boarded the bus for the flight to the French capital. “London, we out. We’re going to Paris,” Stephen Curry, a first-time Olympian, said as he jumped on the bus fully geared to make his debut at the revered competition.

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The team’s unofficial leader (as per Steve Kerr), LeBron James, also gave a brief overview of their London stay. “Couple of practices in. Got an opportunity to do some sightseeing around town. Came together even more as a team, so it’s a good trip for us. Looking forward to Paris,” the King said. LeBron James, along with Kevin Durant will take part in a record-tying fourth Olympics.

Following their draining contest against Germany, James and others all went around the blissful city of London to explore its offerings. Stephen Curry, in particular, had an entire itinerary planned, which he diligently fulfilled. But now, it’s time for business. The Team USA forces are days out from the beginning a pivotal Olympic journey.

For those purposes, the final games in London served as the ideal preparation for Team USA. In both games against South Sudan and Germany, the acclaimed group was challenged. It pointed to some concerning weaknesses which needed to be addressed. But ultimately, Team USA played together and developed remarkable synergy, helping them clinch either of the tough contests.

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What’s your perspective on:

Did LeBron's leadership save USA Basketball from embarrassment, or was it a team effort all along?

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Now, in four days, they will begin the climb for Gold. And their first game will be against a rival they have already faced in the exhibition games.

LeBron James and Co. will take on Nikola Jokić in Olympics opener

In their first game, three-time MVP Nikola Jokic and Serbia will regroup and attempt to exact revenge on Team USA. The two sides faced during Team USA’s Abu Dhabi trip. That game was lob-sided. The USA took all the spoils and more. Led by Stephen Curry’s captivating shooting display, Team USA beat the Joker by 26 points.

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On 28th July, the former Finals MVP will have another chance to dethrone the superstars of Team USA. The Olympics opener will take place at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Lille. Team USA will take part in three group stage games, after which the knockout stages of the tournaments will begin. The other teams that are part of the group are South Sudan and Puerto Rico.

Is there any reason to doubt LeBron James and Team USA in Paris or are they bound to claim gold? Let us know what you think in the comments below.