ABU DHABI, UAE - JULY 17: Stephen Curry #4 of Team USA looks on during the game against the Serbian Men's National Team during the 2024 USA Basketball Showcase on July 17, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, The United Arab Emirates at Etihad Arena. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

Steph: Team USA has 'appropriate fear' of South Sudan

2 years ago
Nathaniel S. Butler / National Basketball Association / Getty

Team USA isn't overlooking South Sudan after narrowly avoiding an upset to the country before the Paris Olympics.

Ahead of Wednesday's matchup against South Sudan in Olympic pool play, Stephen Curry told ESPN's Brian Windhorst that he and his teammates are approaching the game with caution.

"We have appropriate fear," the Golden State Warriors star said. "We know we can't just sleepwalk through any game and feel like you're going to win."

South Sudan, which is competing in its first Olympics, came close to stunning the U.S. in an exhibition game in London earlier this month before losing 101-100. At one point during the game, the Bright Stars held a 16-point lead over Team USA.

"The exhibition schedule was great because you got to figure out where we need to get better and also feel the force of teams that are coming trying to beat us," Curry said. "They're a very high-octane offense, spread the floor, shoot a lot of threes, and have athleticism. So you just got to be mindful of how to guard them. It's totally different than Serbia."

Team USA enters Wednesday's game with a 1-0 record after defeating Serbia in their Olympic opener, while South Sudan also sits at 1-0 after its win over Puerto Rico.

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