The assembly of the most acclaimed players, an indomitable exhibition run, and the return of the heavyweights were all done for one singular purpose. The men’s Team USA wants to consolidate their nation as basketball’s highest power. However, it’s a lot different than the basketball they are used to. Not only do the rules differ, but the space for mistakes is minimal. It’s something LeBron James is well aware of heading into their first game tomorrow.

“This is not like the NBA, where it’s a marathon,” he told ESPN. Playing in a record-fourth Olympics, the Akron Hammer is accustomed to the fast-paced nature of these games. But not everyone on Team USA, no matter how reputed, has faced such odds before. So James provided them with a general thesis.

“This is a sprint. This is Michael Johnson/Usain Bolt-type game. The real thing starts tomorrow … so we need to be ready to go, which we will be,” James said boldly.

Where in the NBA there are 82 games available for teams to navigate through the season, the Olympics only provides six opportunities. Of them, half the quota is reserved for the knockout stages. One loss and it’s game over. The implications of such a result for Team USA could be diabolical given their precedence and successful history at the Summer Olympics.

The chance in Paris is to complete vengeance for the medal-less FIBA World Cup campaign last year. But the job is far from easy. This isn’t the era where oppositions bow to the record-winning USA team. The sport of basketball has spread globally, and now every team has the facilities and insights that can help take down the mighty USA Titans.

As Team USA braces for the high-stakes environment of the Olympics, the return of another key player, Kevin Durant, could be crucial. Likewise, even though loaded with the touted ‘best’, LeBron James and Co will need all the help they get. Luckily, a certain Slim Reaper is starting to feel his calf gain strength.

LeBron James notes the importance of Kevin Durant

During the London exhibition games, the world saw the vulnerability of Team USA. There were moments when both South Sudan and Germany seemed to be the superior team. However, the US forces were depleted, lacking their most prolific Olympic scorer of all time, Kevin Durant.

After missing all five exhibition games, the Slim Reaper partook in his first practice only after landing in Paris. And with him in the lineup, Team USA looks like a totally different, in short, better version of what they have shown thus far.

“Instant impact. He looked extremely well the other day in practice. Obviously, his wind and his rhythm is going to continue to come, but if we’re able to get him back and make a huge impact to our club,” LeBron James admitted.

Durant is after his fourth Olympic gold which will set him on the pinnacle among all the legends that have worn the prestigious uniform in their career. He too is hopeful to get out on the court as soon as possible. When speaking to the Paris media, Durant confessed he despises the inability to play. However, watching his teammates weave the perfect plans game after game has inspired Kevin Durant to a point where he has “got more energy than” any past competition.

If his status remains strong, and Kevin Durant joins Team USA during their clash against Serbia, the NBA community could at last witness the united efforts of Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and KD all in effect. What do you think about Team USA’s chances at the Paris Olympics with the return of Kevin Durant? Comment your thoughts below.