The awkward moment in the U.S. basketball team’s victory over Serbia in the semifinals of the Paris Olympics on Thursday began with a gesture. Serbian guard Bogdan Bogdanovic sank a three-pointer and slapped the side of his head in a signature move of former U.S. star Carmelo Anthony as Anthony and his son sat courtside.
Bogdan Bogdanovic was supported by Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James. pic.twitter.com/flvcpS6eK6
— Nals (@nalsizm) 9 August 2024
It seemed to annoy LeBron James moments later as the teams headed to their bench. James came out of the break and hit a three-pointer shortly after pushing Bogdanovic back and scoring over him before celebrating too little.
Feelings of disrespect lingered after the Americans staged a stunning fourth-quarter comeback to win the game. Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker later made it clear on his Instagram story, posting a picture of his own Melo gesture with the caption, “Respect the legends.”
Bogdanovic scored 20 points to lead Serbia in Thursday’s 95-91 loss. His style of play continued until the postgame handshake, where he high-fived the Americans with a frown after the loss. He complained to the referees after the game.
Bogdanovic has already played against Anthony at Olympic level. Serbia was beaten at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio by a team led by Kevin Durant and Anthony.
And a fun fact for those who may have forgotten: Bogdanovic, who currently plays for the Atlanta Hawks, was a 2014 draft pick of the Suns.
Phoenix retained his rights even when they selected Booker in 2015. But in 2016, the Suns traded Bogdanovic’s rights to the Sacramento Kings to acquire a draft pick and secure forward Marquese Chriss.
