One Pelicans demise is another's opportunity in the 2024 Olympics

While Jose Alvarado and Puerto Rico failed to advance past Group Play after their final defeat in the Olympics to Team USA 104-83, Daniel Theis and Germany have only continued to win games. The Germans are one step closer to playing for gold after beating France on August 2nd to finish Group Play and knocking off Giannis Antetokounmpo-led Greece early this morning. The quarterfinal victory advances Germany to the semifinals, the first to reach the stage among teams.

Daniel Theis has continued to be an effective role player for Germany, supporting Franz Wagner and Dennis Schroder throughout the Olympics. While Franz Wagner and Dennis Schroder have been Germany's best players, and were once against versus both France and Greece. Wagner and Schroder scored 26 apiece against France in an 85-71 win. Theis added seven points (3-for-7, 1-for-2 from three), eight rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

The win over France clinched a quarterfinal appearance for Germany, advancing past Group Play to play Greece. In the 76-63 win, Franz Wagner led the Germans in scoring with 18 points, followed by Dennis Schroder with 13 points. Theis finished with just six points (1-for-5). Yet, Theis still contributed eight rebounds, one assist, and two steals in the victory for Germany. Germany awaits the winner of Canada or France, one of which they already played (France).

Puerto Rico's short run in the Olympics ends Alvarado's terrific summer

While Daniel Theis and Germany have reached the final four of the 2024 Olympics, the same can't be said for Jose Alvarado and Puerto Rico. Their run ended with a heartbreaking 104-83 loss to the United States. Alvarado finished with 18 points (7-for-13, 3-for-7 from three) in the Olympic finale for the Puerto Ricans. Alvarado scored a best of 26 points in Group Play for his country and proved his ability to perform at the highest level, doing so offensively on the professional level.

The momentum of Alvarado's performance could carry over as Alvarado turns his focus toward the Pelicans training camp. Having solidified his place in the rotation as the team's backup point guard, Alvarado could take a step forward in a bigger role for the team in 2024-25. With the consistent injuries and roster influx New Orleans has dealt with, Alvarado has remained one of the few healthy mainstays for the franchise.

On differentiating paths for this summer's Olympics, Daniel Theis and Jose Alvarado have played varying roles in their team's success (or lack thereof) in efforts to chase a gold medal. However, they both have been tremendous representatives of their teams and could be positives heading into the Pelicans training camp before the preseason begins. All eyes are on Theis and Alvarado as the season approaches!