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The 2024 Paris Olympics have delivered some exhilarating basketball moments, but for a few teams, the journey ended sooner than anticipated.
The quarterfinal matchups are set: Germany will take on Greece, Canada will face France, while on the other side of the bracket, Australia will battle Serbia and the USA will go up against Brazil.
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Here’s a look at the four teams already out of the medal contention.
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4 teams eliminated from Olympic medal race
#1, Spain
Spain entered the tournament with a strong track record, boasting three silver medals and a bronze from previous Olympics. Yet, their performance in Paris fell short of expectations. They were placed in a tough Group A with Australia, Canada and Greece.
Spain lost its opening game to Australia 92-80, secured a win against Greece 84-77, but fell narrowly to Canada 88-85.
Ranked No. 2 in the latest FIBA World Rankings, trailing only behind the USA, Spain's campaign came to an abrupt halt.
#2, South Sudan
South Sudan made headlines by qualifying for their first Olympic Games, marking a major milestone for the young nation. They were in Group C, competing against formidable teams like the United States and Serbia.
Their run, however, was brief. After a win over Puerto Rico 90-79, they lost their next two games: 103-86 to the USA and 96-85 to Serbia.
Despite a historic debut, South Sudan will aim to build on this experience for future tournaments.
#3, Japan
Japan, with hopes for Olympic success, was in Group B alongside Brazil, Germany and France.
They began group play with a 20-point defeat to Germany, followed by a 102-84 loss to Brazil. Their campaign ended with a narrow 94-90 loss to France.
Japan's effort was hampered by a calf injury to Rui Hachimura, who missed the last two games.
“As my injury required early treatment, I was unfortunately unable to accompany the team in accordance with NBA/FIBA rules,” Hachimura said.
“I would like to thank all the spectators who supported me at the venue, basketball fans around the world, and all the fans in Japan. I think that together with my teammates, we played a very good game for Japanese basketball. I am proud to have been able to play as a member of Akatsuki Japan.”
Hachimura scored a game-high 24 points in 29 minutes during the loss to France.
#4, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico made its Olympic return for the first time since 2004 with hopes of making a significant impact. They were in Group C with the United States, South Sudan, and Serbia. Unfortunately, their tournament was marked by challenging matchups.
They lost their opener 90-79 to South Sudan, followed by a 110-85 defeat against Team USA, and a 107-66 loss to Serbia, led by Nikola Jokic.
