Serbia Overcomes Historic Deficit to Secure Semifinal Spot
Nikola Jokic showcased why he's one of the most formidable players in basketball today, delivering a masterful performance to lead Serbia to a thrilling 95-90 overtime victory against Australia in the 2024 Olympic quarterfinals. His exceptional play ensured Serbia a spot in at least the bronze-medal game and kept their gold medal hopes alive.
Jokic's stat line was almost unbelievable: 24 points, 14 rebounds, eight assists, and four steals. He was the driving force behind Serbia's unprecedented comeback from a 24-point deficit, the largest in Olympic history. This victory underscored the resilience and determination that have become hallmarks of the Serbian national team.
A Game for the Ages
The game was a roller-coaster ride from start to finish. Patty Mills and Josh Giddey combined for 51 points for Australia, with Mills hitting a crucial fadeaway jumper to tie the game at the end of regulation. As the game moved into overtime, Jokic's heroics became even more pronounced.
In the extra period, Jokic contributed in every conceivable way. He scored four points, made two steals, grabbed two rebounds, provided one assist, and blocked one shot. His timely drive-and-kick set up Ognjen Dobric for a critical three-pointer, and a blocked layup attempt from Patty Mills—legal in international play but considered goaltending in the NBA—were pivotal moments that shifted momentum in Serbia's favor.
Another crucial block against Josh Giddey cemented Jokic's all-around impact on the game. He then tied the game with a jump hook and grabbed a key rebound off a Jack McVeigh miss. Perhaps the defining moment came when Jokic scored on a one-foot fallaway jumper, giving Serbia a lead they would never relinquish.
The Jokic Effect
Jokic's impact in overtime extended beyond scoring. His defensive prowess and situational awareness were on full display. After a critical turnover late in regulation, Jokic managed to steal the ball back from Mills, setting the stage for overtime. His pivotal rebounds, most notably after McVeigh's 15-foot corner jumper missed in the final minute of overtime, kept Serbia's hopes intact.
Serbia's extraordinary comeback was as much about collective team spirit as it was about individual brilliance. "Resilience" and "tenacity" have become synonymous with Serbian basketball, and this game served as a testament to those virtues.
Jokic, who has won three of the last four NBA MVP awards, displayed the versatility and leadership that have made him a global superstar. His ability to step up in clutch moments was the defining factor in this historic win.
Next Up: The Semifinals
With the win, Serbia advances to the semifinals, where they will face the winner of the USA/Brazil game. Regardless of the outcome, Serbia is guaranteed a medal-round appearance, a testament to their resilience and skill.
This remarkable game will likely be remembered as one of the greatest comebacks in Olympic basketball history, a fitting chapter for a player of Jokic's caliber and a team as spirited as Serbia.