The United States narrowly avoided a historic upset in a thrilling 101-100 victory over South Sudan in an Olympic warm-up game at London's O2 Arena. Trailing by 16 points at one stage, the USA staged a remarkable comeback to secure the win.

South Sudan led 58-42 in the second quarter and extended their lead to 14 points by halftime. However, a 16-0 run by the USA in the third quarter saw them take a five-point lead. The game remained tense, with South Sudan regaining a one-point advantage with just 20 seconds left.

LeBron James proved decisive, hitting a crucial lay-up with eight seconds remaining to put the USA ahead by one point. South Sudan missed a late opportunity to secure the win, allowing the USA to escape with the victory.

This game was a significant test for the USA, who are aiming for their fifth consecutive men's basketball gold medal at the Paris Olympics. South Sudan, ranked 33rd in the world, will be competing in their first-ever Olympic Games. Despite the disparity in rankings and experience, with only four South Sudan players having NBA experience, they outplayed the top-ranked USA team in the first half, hitting 61% of their shots while the USA managed only one three-pointer.

Marial Shayok led the scoring for South Sudan with 25 points, and JT Thor of the Charlotte Hornets hit a three-pointer that put South Sudan ahead late in the game. However, it was James' game-winning performance, finishing with 23 points, that sealed the victory for the USA.

The United States have now won all four of their pre-Olympic exhibition games, with their final warm-up match against Germany scheduled for Monday at the O2 Arena. Reflecting on the game, LeBron James, a two-time Olympic champion, said, "That was better than the blowouts, at least we got tested - I like getting tested baby."

The USA and South Sudan will meet again in Group C of the 2024 Olympics on July 31. USA guard Anthony Edwards emphasized the importance of the match, stating, "The match was super important because we feel like we can’t be beaten and they showed us we can be beat. We have to come ready to play."