LeBron James helps Team USA avoid massive upset against South Sudan.Read more…

LeBron James saved the U.S. from a stunning loss.

James’ layup with 8 seconds left was the go-ahead basket, and the U.S. Olympic team escaped with a 101-100 win over South Sudan on Saturday in London, rallying from a 16-point deficit to avoid what would have been a massive upset.

South Sudan, which gained its independence just 13 years ago, had a chance to win it. Carlik Jones had a decent look off the glass with about 4 seconds left, but it missed.

James finished with 23 points, six rebounds and six assists for the U.S., which improved to 4-0 on its pre-Olympic exhibition tour with one game remaining. Anthony Davis added 15 points for the Americans.

Marial Shayok led all scorers with 25 points for South Sudan and Jones had a triple-double — 15 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists.

The teams will meet in group play in the Paris Olympics on July 31.

In a thrilling encounter that kept basketball fans on the edge of their seats, LeBron James led Team USA to a narrow victory over South Sudan, preventing what could have been a historic upset. The game, part of an international friendly series, showcased the resilience and skill of both teams, but it was James’ experience and leadership that ultimately made the difference.

A Hard-Fought Battle

From the opening tip-off, it was clear that South Sudan was not to be underestimated. Their young and dynamic squad played with energy and determination, matching Team USA’s intensity and keeping the score close throughout the game. South Sudan’s star player, Luol Deng, was particularly impressive, displaying his versatility and scoring ability to keep his team in contention.

JT Thor’s 3-pointer with 20 seconds left gave South Sudan a 100-99 lead, then the Americans called timeout and put the ball in James’ hands. He waited, waited, waited, then drove and laid it in with ease to put the U.S. back on top, and the Americans got the stop they needed at the end.

An 18-0 run in the second half — James involved in most of it — was what really saved the U.S. from what could have easily been considered the most surprising loss in the national team’s history. It turned a 76-65 deficit into an 83-76 lead.