There was a lot for the US Olympic team to like on Monday. And a lot not to like.
Anthony Davis scored 17 points and grabbed 14 rebounds, Tyrese Haliburton came up with a pair of late 3-pointers that helped stop a freefall by the Americans, and the US beat Australia 98-92 on Monday to improve to 2-0 in its five-game slate of exhibitions leading into the Paris Olympics.
Devin Booker scored 16 for the US, Anthony Edwards scored 14 and three players — LeBron James, Bam Adebayo and Joel Embiid — finished with 10 for the Americans, who are playing host to a pair of exhibitions at Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, this week. They’ll play Serbia there on Wednesday.
Jock Landale scored 20 for Australia, which got 17 from Josh Giddey and 14 from Dyson Daniels.
The US led by 24 midway through the third quarter, yet saw that lead cut to six with 5:05 left after Australia went on a 39-21 run. But Haliburton had the next six points on his 3s, pushing the lead back to 92-80.
Australia cut it to four on two separate occasions, but Booker went 4-for-4 from the line in the final 8 seconds to ensure the US would escape.
“Third quarter, we started turning the ball over,” US coach Steve Kerr said. “We gave up a ton of points at the basket. Back cuts, offensive boards and so, the game shifted. It’s a good lesson for us. Better to learn that lesson now than later. And this will be a good tape for us to watch. But I give Australia a ton of credit. They were great. They fought. They were really physical. Took it to us in the last quarter and a half and really made it a game.”
Second unit, again
Just like in the Canada game, the so-called second unit — Haliburton, Jrue Holiday, Adebayo, Davis and Booker — changed the game.
That was the group on the floor when the Americans took a game that was tied at 19-19 with 3:15 left in the first and turned it into a 39-23 lead — a 20-4 run in a span of just over 5 minutes.
Kerr used that group as his starting five to open the second half. But it’s become a clear trend already: when the US goes to its bench and can replace All-Stars with other All-Stars, it’s just going to be a massive problem for opponents who don’t have anywhere near that same level of depth.
“The strength of our team is our depth and we have to utilize our depth,” Kerr said.
It’s been something the Americans have used to their advantage in the past. Dwyane Wade led the gold-medalist 2008 US Olympic team in points, even though he was sixth in minutes on that team and came off the bench in all eight games.
Turnovers
Here’s the big trouble sign right now for the US: turnovers.
FIBA games are shorter than NBA games, 40 minutes instead of 48 minutes. That means there are fewer possessions and makes it even more imperative to not give the ball away.
Which the Americans did. A lot.
After committing 15 turnovers in last week’s exhibition win over Canada, the US had 18 giveaways on Monday and Australia used them to fuel the comeback effort — getting 25 points off turnovers in the second half alone.
“Our turnovers, it’s all about focus and execution,” Davis said.
Injury watch
Kevin Durant missed his second consecutive game because of a calf strain, and with only one practice between games it wouldn’t seem likely that he plays Wednesday against Serbia either.
Derrick White, who arrived in Abu Dhabi over the weekend and got into his first practice with the team on Sunday, also didn’t play. White replaced Kawhi Leonard — who deals with knee issues — on the US roster after the Americans determined last week that it wasn’t in Leonard’s best interest to play this summer.
US holds off Australia for 98-92 win in Olympics tuneup in Abu Dhabi
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US holds off Australia for 98-92 win in Olympics tuneup in Abu Dhabi
- The US led by 24 midway through the third quarter, yet saw that lead cut to six with 5:05 left after Australia went on a 39-21 run
Saudi esports leader hails gamers’ powerful ‘inspiration’ as New Global Sport Conference begins in Riyadh
- Prince Faisal speaks to Arab News as Esports World Cup ends
- Kingdom’s gamers can compete with the world’s best, he says
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has taken significant strides toward becoming a global hub for esports and the gaming industry, according to Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, head of the Saudi Esports Federation.
He was speaking exclusively to Arab News ahead of the New Global Sport Conference on Aug. 24 and 25 in Riyadh, and as the inaugural Esports World Cup reaches its climax over the weekend.
Arab News is a media partner of the New Global Sport Conference.
Reflecting on the success of the world cup, Prince Faisal said: “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve done. You’re talking about 1,500 players and thousands of people involved on the ground — the ushers, coordinators, protocol, production teams.
“Getting everyone excited every day for eight weeks is a massive accomplishment, and I’m very proud of the showcase we’ve been able to present to the world.”
For Prince Faisal, one highlight stood above all other memorable moments.
He recounted the emotional reaction of Saudi Arabia’s esports star Mosaad Al-Dossary when his side, Team Falcons, secured the championship.
“It wasn’t just the fact that Falcons won that was the highlight for me; it was Mosaad Al-Dossary’s reaction on stage,” Prince Faisal said.
“To see the emotion break through, the tears, the joy — it was a powerful moment that showed the humanity behind the player.”
Prince Faisal highlighted the broader significance of the team’s success. “They are an inspiration globally, showcasing a willingness to participate across multiple games and succeed.
“They’ve proven that investing in our young men and women is an investment worth making and that it represents the future of this industry.”
Prince Faisal highlighted the excitement and enthusiasm on the ground and online, where viewership numbers have nearly doubled from last year’s Gamers8 event.
“I think the thing I’ve heard most from Saudis is they never thought they would get the opportunity to see these tournaments for themselves,” he said.
“It’s a showcase that Saudi teams can compete on the main stage with the best teams and players in the world.”
As the New Global Sport Conference 2024 approaches, Prince Faisal stressed the importance of bringing together diverse stakeholders, from publishers to players, under a unified vision.
“Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do in this industry,” he said. “The players and fans are central to this vision and the federation must ensure their voices remain at the forefront as they shape the future of esports.”
The conference’s focus is “The Future of Fandom,” which Prince Faisal said emphasized the importance of player and viewer input.
“They’re the ones playing the games, watching the tournaments, and shaping what lives and dies in this industry,” he said.
“Keeping them at the center is the only way to stay ahead of the curve.”
AlUla Desert Blaze returns
- The AlUla Desert Blaze is considered to be “the toughest in the region”
- The prize money remains the same as last year; with SR 176,000 ($46,900) being split among the winners
ALULA: This week, amid the ancient rock formations and AlUla’s iconic landscapes will be a sight to behold: 18 elite international runners—and local athletes from the region—will be running across AlUla for the second annual Desert Blaze, which will take place on Aug. 24.
The 2024 Desert Blaze experience will take runners through AlUla; starting and ending at Hegra—the Kingdom’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site—offering runners a unique opportunity to journey through the footsteps of history, while being part of history. And those running the second half of the 42km marathon will go through the Ashar Valley and will journey through Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, a perhaps philosophical reflection on their endurance and dedication to the sport.
The combination of AlUla’s rugged natural beauty and the intense landscape—and smoldering heat—will create a challenging race that will be truly formidable, testing even the most seasoned of athletes.
Arab News spoke to Rami Almoallim, vice president of destination management and marketing at the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) ahead of the race for some insights on what to expect this time around.
“This event is not just a race, it’s a unique and transformative experience, providing a new performance milestone for athletes and offering a unique perspective on AlUla’s rich visitor offerings,” Almoallim told us.
Last year’s very first Desert Blaze race was one for the books.
“The inaugural 2023 AlUla Desert Blaze proved to be a milestone event that truly exemplified AlUla’s adventurous spirit, while showcasing the breathtaking diversity of our historic landscapes. Ultimately, it solidified AlUla’s reputation as a premier destination for adventure and extreme challenges,” he added.
The AlUla Desert Blaze is considered to be “the toughest in the region”—for good reason.
“The AlUla Desert Blaze is known as ‘the toughest race in the region’ due to its extreme conditions and challenging terrain,” he said. “The race takes place in one of the hottest climates in the world—at the peak of the summer heat—requiring participants to push their limits as they navigate through tough desert landscapes. It’s not just a physical challenge but a mental one as well, demanding resilience, endurance, and determination.”
This year, the team promises to build on lessons learned from last year, in order to elevate the overall experience.
“Our goal is to take participants on an even more daring journey through time and terrain, pushing them to their limits in what has quickly become known as the toughest race in the region,” Almoallim added. “Desert Blaze has already become a bucket-list challenge for endurance athletes, attracting participants from across the globe. The event is set to become a fixture in the global endurance racing calendar, reflecting our commitment to establishing AlUla as a premier hub for sports tourism,” he said.
There is also a monetary incentive, in addition to the lifelong memories. The prize money remains the same as last year; with SR 176,000 ($46,900) being split among the winners of the 10km, 21km, and 42km races.
And many runners are returning for round two.
“We are thrilled to welcome back several competitors from last year’s races. Notably, Karis Brown, who came in 3rd overall in the Female Desert Blaze marathon, and Manal Rostom, the well-known Egyptian athlete, will be competing again. We also look forward to welcoming back Loui Blake, the popular ultra-endurance athlete and influencer,” he said.
Their return not only highlights the event’s growing—and glowing—reputation, but also highlights the seemingly rewarding experience that AlUla Desert Blaze offers.
Of course, this could not be done without a dedicated staff and team of professionals who will be on standby to support the runners as they run across the space, whether they run the 5km, 10km, 21km, or the full 42km. There will be hydration stations every 2.5km, and medical teams will be at the ready across the route; providing resources to help runners safely navigate and manage the extreme conditions. There will be aid stations along the route which will provide essential supplies; such as water, ice buckets, energy gels and fresh fruits. Runners will have access to comprehensive medical services and amenities, including ambulances with roaming and stationed paramedics, nurses and physiotherapists.
“Preparation for an event of this magnitude requires meticulous planning and coordination. From the perspective of the organizers, no detail is too small, and we leave nothing to chance—from ensuring the safety and comfort of participants to maintaining the integrity of the challenging course through AlUla’s stunning yet rugged terrain,” Almoallim assured us.
Participants will be flying in from across the globe, with a significant number of elite athletes hailing from East Africa, particularly Ethiopia and Kenya. The event will also see strong representation from the region, with both men and women taking part.
The local community in AlUla will, no doubt, be at the forefront at Desert Blaze. Many locals will be participating in the race itself, and a significant number will take part as staff and marshals.
“The presence of local runners adds a unique dynamic to the race, allowing them to represent their home on an international stage,” Almoallim said. “The community’s participation enhances the event’s authenticity and underscores the deep connection between the people of AlUla and their historic landscape. Their involvement is a testament to the community’s enthusiasm for showcasing AlUla’s beauty and hospitality to a global audience.”
The AlUla Desert Blaze event will also significantly add to the morphing repertoire within the growing portfolio of sport-related offerings in the Kingdom. It will, in addition, help position AlUla as being the go-to place for sustainable and responsible tourism.
“By hosting events that showcase the area’s natural and cultural richness, we’re not only promoting sports and adventure, but also fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and heritage of AlUla. This event stands as a testament to our dedication to preserving AlUla’s unique landscapes while delivering world-class experiences that draw visitors from around the globe,” Almoallim concluded.
PFL ‘Battle of Giants’ MMA showdown to take place at Mayadeen in Riyadh
- Former UFC undisputed heavyweight champion Francis ‘The Predator’ Ngannou returns to MMA for fight against PFL heavyweight champion Renan ‘Problema’ Ferreira
- MMA great Cris Cyborg faces 2-time PFL champion Larissa Pacheco in world title fight as co-main event
NEW YORK: Mayadeen in Riyadh has been confirmed as the venue for the Professional Fighters League’s “Battle of the Giants” event on Saturday, Oct. 19.
The card will have Francis “The Predator” Ngannou (17-3) return to Saudi Arabia and the MMA world to face feared Renan “Problema” Ferreira (13-3, 3 no-contests), for the newly minted PFL Super Fights Championship belt.
The show is a part of Saudi Arabia’s foray into sports and entertainment. The country has already hosted over 100 global events, attended by 2.6 million people.
The co-main event will have another world title fight on the women’s side featuring MMA great Cris Cyborg (27-2, 1 no-contest) against PFL two-division champion Larissa Pacheco (23-4).
Speaking in Washington at a press conference for the event, Ngannou, said he could not wait to return to Saudi Arabia to fight.
“I am happy to return to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and be in the city of Riyadh, which holds a special place in my heart,” he said.
“The great way that the Saudi audience welcomed me last time was amazing, so I look forward to delivering a standout performance in front of them and winning this big showdown.”
His opponent said it would be his first time in the Kingdom.
“I am very excited to be in Saudi Arabia for the first time, Ferreira said. “I've heard a lot about the growth of the martial arts scene in the country and I want to be part of the development of this sport there, through my participation in this match where I will definitely give it my all to achieve a historic victory to add to my previous successes.”
New Global Sport Conference 2024 to discuss Saudi’s hosting of Olympic Esports Games
- Session will include Abdulaziz Baeshen, secretary-general and CEO of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation
RIYADH: The New Global Sport Conference 2024 on Aug. 24 and 25 is set to discuss Saudi Arabia’s historic hosting of the inaugural Olympic Esports Games next year.
This comes in the wake of the recent announcement by the International Olympic Committee to partner with Saudi Arabia for 12 years to host the games.
The NGSC conference will have 60 speakers and more than 1,200 leaders from the esports, gaming, business, entertainment, and mainstream esports realms, including over 200 of the world’s most prominent CEOs.
The panel discussion titled “A Historic Convergence of Esports,” will explore the integration of esports into the Olympic movement.
Ser Miang Ng, vice president of the IOC, said: “The decision to create the Olympic Esports Games marks a historic moment that will profoundly impact both the Olympics and the world of esports.
“This is a recognition of the skill, dedication, and athleticism of esports players, who will have the opportunity to write their names in history as the first winners of the Olympic Esports Games next year in Saudi Arabia.
“The world will witness esports’ true impact as players across the globe come together to compete at the highest level, showcasing their talents on the grandest stage.”
David Lappartient, IOC member and chair of the IOC Esports Commission, and president of Union Cycliste Internationale, said he was looking forward to the discussions.
“Esports is a rapidly growing field that resonates deeply with younger generations worldwide, and it is only fitting that it takes its place on the Olympic stage, where the world’s best athletes come together in the spirit of excellence and fair play.”
He added: “We are thrilled to have Saudi Arabia as the host of this groundbreaking event, especially when looking at the Kingdom’s remarkable growth in esports, sports, and entertainment, which is a testament to its readiness to host such a spectacular event.”
Abdulaziz Baeshen, secretary-general and CEO of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, said this was a milestone achievement for sports globally.
“The creation of the Olympic Esports Games represents a monumental opportunity in sports and gaming and marks a historic step forward for the Olympic movement, with Saudi Arabia at the forefront as an important driving force.”
He said it aligns with the Kingdom’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy, launched in 2022, and is set to continue the sector’s growth in the country.
“Beyond giving esports athletes a chance to represent something much bigger than themselves by competing for their countries in 2025, this is also an opportunity for Olympic values to reach and inspire an entirely new audience.”
Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, said: “The recent announcement of the Olympic Esports Games is a true testament to the global impact of esports and its status as a new and serious global sport.”
He added: “The first New Global Sport Conference in 2023 proudly unveiled the Esports World Cup — currently being hosted to global acclaim in Riyadh —so it is fitting that this year’s edition provides another momentous step on Saudi Arabia’s esports journey.”
EWC primed for TEKKEN 8 final
- Eighth and final week of competition features TEKKEN 8 showpiece occasion on Friday. PUBG Battlegrounds, ESL, and Rocket League finals, as well as Closing Ceremony, take place on Sunday August 25
RIYADH: The Esports World Cup hosts the first final of the last weekend of competition on Friday when TEKKEN 8 draws to a conclusion.
The Amazon Arena at Boulevard Riyadh City will host some of the world’s best TEKKEN 8 gamers as they battle it out to be crowned world champion — and earn $300,000 from the tournament’s $1m prize pool.
Yagami was the first player to progress to the quarterfinal stage on Thursday. The Australian, who plays for Al-Qadsiah, the esports organization under the newly promoted Saudi Pro League football club of the same name, beat both AO and JeonDDing 2-1 in Group A second phase action. Pakistani gamer Hafiz Tanveer, who plays for Saudi club Twisted Minds, topped first phase Group E action to progress to the second phase.
In PUBG Battlegrounds, the Asian clubs made it a perfect top three in the group stage standings. South Korean club Freecs topped the lot, with Thai Valee Esports second, and Chinese outfit 17 Gaming coming third. PUBG Battlegrounds has a first prize of $700,000 from the tournament’s $2m pot. In other EWC action, both ESL and Rocket League began their tournaments on Thursday.
Team Falcons already have the champions crown, but other final positions are still up for grabs so there’s everything to play for as teams chase coveted spots in the EWC Club Championship standings.
The overall EWC prize pool is $60 million, the largest ever in industry history.
The closing ceremony takes place on Sunday, Aug. 25 with international artists Steve Aoki, Kid Cudi, and Sevdaliza providing the perfect ending to two fantastic months of competition in Riyadh.
