Kerr: Brazil’s team is the strongest in Olympic basketball for grabbing offensive rebounds and skilled in physicality; we must give our best

August 5th news, earlier, Steve Kerr, the head coach of the USA men’s national basketball team, shared some insights on preparations against Brazil.

Kerr mentioned that Brazil’s team is the most proficient in grabbing offensive rebounds among all teams at this Olympics.

On Sunday, Kerr said, “They play with a high emphasis on physicality, and I believe they are the strongest in offensive rebounding at this Olympics. They also have many excellent shooters. This team gives their all in every game. So we must be ready to face their physicality and shooting. We need to stay alert as they are not easily going to back down.”

Brazil’s team has been a surprise package in the Olympic men’s basketball tournament. During the group stage, six players averaged more than eight points each, averaging 13 offensive rebounds per game, and they hit an average of 11 three-pointers per game with a 45% shooting rate.

Industry experts view Brazil’s efficient playing style as fitting the profile of teams capable of pulling off upsets. Moreover, during the group stage, the USA team had 16 fewer offensive rebounds than their opponents, which is one of their few weaknesses.

Additionally, despite having only Gui Santos as an active NBA player, Brazil’s team boasts several former NBA players and experienced veterans. Five players on the team are over 30 years old, and their composure has played a significant role multiple times.

“I’ve watched all their games,” LeBron James said. “They’re very loyal to their offensive and defensive systems.”

If the USA team beats Brazil, they will face the winner between Serbia and Australia in the next round. Regardless of how the elimination rounds unfold, it promises to be a high-level battle for the gold medal.

“I mentioned Olympic spirit and marathon spirit before, and now we’re experiencing these, it’s like a 800-meter race,” said Kerr. “We need to keep running at full speed, not starting to sprint until the 100-meter mark.”