In a game for the ages, Nikola Jokic orchestrated a stunning comeback to lead Serbia to a 95-90 overtime victory against Australia in the 2024 Olympic quarterfinals. This historic win guarantees Serbia a spot in at least the bronze-medal game, and they will face the winner of the USA/Brazil game in the semifinals.
Jokic's Incredible Performance
Jokic was nothing short of sensational, recording 24 points, 14 rebounds, eight assists, and four steals. The 3-time NBA MVP's performance was instrumental in overcoming a seemingly insurmountable 24-point deficit, the largest comeback in Olympic history. Jokic's poise under pressure was most evident during the overtime period, where he contributed crucial plays on both ends of the court.
In overtime, he scored four points, made two steals, grabbed two rebounds, provided one assist, and blocked one shot. One of his most critical plays was a drive-and-kick that set up Ognjen Dobric for a vital three-pointer. Additionally, Jokic blocked a Patty Mills layup, a defensive stop that is legal in international play but would have been deemed goaltending in the NBA. Beyond this, Jokic had another pivotal block against Josh Giddey and secured a key rebound off a Jack McVeigh miss.
Clutch Moments in Overtime
With the game hanging in the balance, Jokic tied the score with a jump hook and then nailed a one-foot fallaway jumper to give Serbia a lead they never relinquished. Every move he made seemed to lift the morale and flow of the Serbian team, illustrating why he has been crowned NBA MVP three times in the past four years.
Australia's Resilient Effort
Despite the heart-wrenching loss, Australia's Patty Mills and Josh Giddey played valiantly, combining for 51 points. Mills, ever the clutch player, hit a fadeaway jumper to send the game into overtime. However, even his heroics couldn't withstand Jokic's relentless drive. Jokic's defense also stood tall as he stole the ball back from Mills after a crucial turnover in the dying moments of regulation.
The Final Minutes
The last few minutes of overtime were a masterclass in resilience and tenacity from the Serbian squad. After Jokic's pivotal jumpers and blocks, he pulled down a game-securing rebound off a McVeigh's missed 15-footer in the final minute. Each of these plays underscored Serbia's unyielding spirit and determination to overturn the odds.
Reflections on the Game
Serbia's victory over Australia is a testament to the team's resilience and tenacity. Coming back from a 24-point deficit on such a grand stage is a feat that will be remembered in Olympic history. Jokic's all-around brilliance, both in regulation and in overtime, ignited the team and propelled them to this unforgettable win.
What Lies Ahead
With this win, Serbia is assured of competing for at least a bronze medal, but their ambitions surely aim higher. As they prepare to face either the USA or Brazil in the semifinals, the team will look to build on this momentum. Jokic's leadership and extraordinary play will undoubtedly be central to their pursuit of Olympic glory.
This game will be talked about for years to come, not just for the remarkable comeback but for the individual brilliance of Nikola Jokic. His clutch performances, basketball IQ, and indomitable spirit have once again proven why he is one of the premier players in the world. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Jokic and Serbia, who have shown that they are capable of achieving the extraordinary.