United States vs. Serbia Men's Basketball: Picks, Predictions, Odds and Player Props

The excitement is building for the Preliminary Round Group C opening matchup between the United States and Serbia in the Olympics men's basketball competition.

Sunday morning's game is highly anticipated. The U.S. enter as the gold medal favorite, boasting a 5-0 exhibition record (despite three close calls) and a roster full of NBA superstars.

Meanwhile, Serbia, who went 3-2 during exhibitions, will look to showcase their European finesse and disciplined play, led by a potent NBA tandem of Nikola Jokić, arguably the best player in the world, and Bogdan Bogdanović.

Despite the U.S. defeating Serbia 105-79 in an exhibition on July 17, this game promises to be a thrilling encounter.

For those looking to make informed bets, here are some key picks and predictions to consider.

United States vs. Serbia men's basketball Betting Picks and Predictions

Over 179.5 Total Points (-115)

Serbia showcased their firepower in exhibitions against Greece and Japan, scoring 94 points and 119 points, respectively.

In their exhibition meeting, the U.S. and Serbia combined for 184 points and key scorer Bogdanović did not play.

Without Jokić’s best running mate, Serbia shot a meager 11-34 from deep and even with Bam Adebayo, Joel Embiid and Anthony Davis focusing on containing Jokić, the Over still hit.

The U.S. roster, composed of some of the world’s greatest players, was still working out kinks and learning to play together in that first matchup.

The U.S. will aim to make a statement in the opener and Serbia, with a roster mostly accustomed to playing together and the addition of Bogdanović, should be better prepared on offense. Expect an up-tempo clash.

Joel Embiid Under 12.5 Points (-125)

Team USA is not built around Embiid like the Philadelphia 76ers are. His discomfort and lack of adaptability in a system full of other stars were on full display during the exhibitions.

In the matchup against Serbia, Embiid struggled from the field, scoring eight points on 2/8 shooting.

Additionally, backup big men Adebayo and Davis shined, combining for 24 points on 8/11 shooting while effectively limiting Jokić’s efficiency.

We expect to see more of Adebayo and Davis, creating fewer scoring opportunities for Embiid.

USA -13.5 (-105)

Handicapping a spread pick in the first matchup of Olympic basketball is challenging, especially given the U.S.' inconsistencies in the exhibition games and facing one of the best players in the world.

Many experts believe the U.S. is still shaking off rust and prefer to play it “safe” by backing Serbia on the spread.

However, with the exhibitions behind them, the U.S. and their star power and depth will be locked in and looking to make an immediate statement.

Even with Bogdanović in the lineup, Serbia does not have the athleticism or depth to match.

While the U.S. team continues its ascent toward full potential, we don’t see a lapse against Serbia coming in their first official game.

Read the latest USA Basketball news on site.

United States vs. Serbia men’s basketball odds

United States	-1000 ML
Serbia	+650 ML
Spread	United States -13.5
Total Points	O/U 179.5

United States vs. Serbia men’s basketball player props

Player Points

Nikola Jokic (Serbia)	O/U 18.5
Bogdan Bogdanovic (Serbia)	O/U 16.5
LeBron James (USA)	O/U 15.5
Stephen Curry (USA)	O/U 14.5
Anthony Edwards (USA)	O/U 13.5
Joel Embiid (USA)	O/U 12.5

This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.