The 2004 Summer Olympics: U.S. Men’s Basketball Team Defeated by Lithuania

On August 22, 2004, during the Summer Olympics held in Athens, Greece, the United States men’s basketball team faced a significant upset when they were defeated by Lithuania. This event marked a pivotal moment in Olympic basketball history, highlighting the increasing competitiveness of international basketball.

Context and Background

The 2004 Summer Olympics were particularly symbolic as they were held in Athens, the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games. The U.S. men’s basketball team, often referred to as the “Dream Team” since their dominant performance in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, had been a powerhouse in international basketball. However, by 2004, the landscape of international basketball had evolved, with many countries developing strong basketball programs and producing NBA-caliber talent.

The Game

• Date: August 22, 2004
• Location: Athens, Greece
• Teams: United States vs. Lithuania

The U.S. team, composed of NBA stars, was expected to perform well despite a rocky start in the tournament, which included a loss to Puerto Rico. However, Lithuania, known for its strong basketball tradition and skilled players, posed a formidable challenge.

Key Players

• United States: The team included notable NBA players such as Tim Duncan, Allen Iverson, and LeBron James, among others.
• Lithuania: The Lithuanian team featured standout players like Šarūnas Jasikevičius, who played a crucial role in their victory.

Game Highlights

Lithuania defeated the United States with a score of 94-90. Šarūnas Jasikevičius was instrumental in Lithuania’s success, scoring 28 points, including several critical three-pointers that helped secure the win. The U.S. team struggled with cohesion and shooting accuracy, which contributed to their defeat.

Aftermath and Significance

The loss to Lithuania was a wake-up call for the U.S. basketball program, emphasizing the need for better preparation and team chemistry in international competitions. The defeat was part of a broader trend during the 2004 Olympics, where the U.S. team finished with a bronze medal after losing to Argentina in the semifinals.

Broader Impact

• International Basketball: The victory by Lithuania underscored the growing parity in international basketball, with many countries capable of competing at the highest level.
• U.S. Basketball: In response to the 2004 performance, the U.S. revamped its approach to international competitions, leading to the formation of a more cohesive and strategically prepared team for future Olympics.

The 2004 defeat remains a significant moment in Olympic basketball history, illustrating the dynamic and competitive nature of the sport on the global stage.