Serbia Triumphs in Overtime Thriller Against Australia
In a game that will be remembered as one of the most astonishing comebacks in Olympic basketball history, Nikola Jokic spearheaded Serbia's 95-90 overtime victory against Australia in the 2024 Olympic quarterfinals. The victory not only secured Serbia a place in at least the bronze-medal game but also showcased the tenacity and resilience of the Serbian team.
Jokic's performance was nothing short of legendary. The Serbian star dominated the court, recording 24 points, 14 rebounds, eight assists, and four steals over the course of the game. However, his contributions in the overtime period were particularly critical.
Trailing by as much as 24 points, Serbia mounted a historic comeback to force the game into overtime. This marked the largest deficit overcome in Olympic basketball history, a testament to the squad's unyielding determination.
In the intense overtime period, Jokic continued to shine, contributing across multiple facets of the game. He notched four points, made two steals, grabbed two rebounds, provided one assist, and even blocked a crucial shot by Patty Mills—an action that is within the rules in international play but would be considered goaltending in the NBA.
Jokic also orchestrated a pivotal play, driving into the lane and kicking the ball out to Ognjen Dobric, who sank a crucial three-pointer that solidified Serbia's momentum. His defensive prowess was on full display as well, evidenced by a critical block on Josh Giddey in the dying moments of overtime.
Patty Mills and Josh Giddey were formidable opponents, combining for 51 points for Australia. Mills caught fire late, hitting a fadeaway jumper to tie the game at the end of regulation, making the overtime showdown inevitable. However, Serbia’s defense, led by Jokic, proved too formidable in the extra period.
Jokic’s all-around play included securing decisive rebounds, such as one off a missed 15-foot corner jumper by Jack McVeigh in the final minute of overtime, and another that he converted into a one-foot fallaway jumper, giving Serbia a lead they never relinquished.
One of the game's defining sequences occurred at the tail end of regulation. After a crucial turnover, Jokic managed to steal the ball back from Mills, preventing Australia from executing a potential game-winning play. This perfectly captured the essence of Jokic’s dual-threat capability on both ends of the floor.
The game’s intensity and high stakes were evident throughout, especially in the extra period where every possession mattered. Jokic didn’t just score; he facilitated, defended, and rebounded with an intensity that left no doubt about his leadership on the court. Each block, each rebound, and each shot was a testament to his multifaceted talent.
With this victory, Serbia now sets its sights on the semifinals, where they will face the winner of the USA/Brazil game. Achieving at least a bronze guarantees that this Serbian squad, led by a player who has won three of the last four NBA MVP awards, will leave a lasting mark on this year’s Olympic basketball tournament.
Jokic's remarkable performance ensures that beyond mere statistics, it is his indomitable spirit and clutch play that will be remembered. His effort against Australia is an exemplar of the very best in competitive sports and sets a high bar as Serbia moves further into the tournament.
As the Serbian team prepares for their next opponent, the lasting impression of this game will undoubtedly be the extraordinary leadership and skill shown by Jokic in overcoming one of the most challenging scenarios of his career. Serbia continues their Olympic journey, driven by a player whose contributions transcend numbers, embodying the very essence of clutch performance on the world stage.