Bogdan Bogdanovic had his share of standout moments during Serbia’s surprising run toward the gold medal game at the Paris Olympics, but in the end, it was Team USA that stole the spotlight.
The Serbian sharpshooter put up an impressive performance, scoring 20 points along with 3 assists and 4 rebounds. His efforts helped Serbia build a commanding 17-point lead, but it wasn’t enough to stave off a fierce Team USA rally, which saw them ultimately secure a 95-91 victory.
One of the game’s most talked-about moments came when Bogdanovic appeared to taunt Team USA legend Carmelo Anthony, who was seated courtside. After sinking a crucial three-pointer, the Atlanta Hawks guard turned to Anthony and mimicked the iconic “three to the dome” celebration—a gesture Anthony himself popularized during his playing days.
Bogdan Bogdanovic hits another one from super DEEP! He’s still doing the three to the dome and staring at Carmelo Anthony 🤣
https://t.co/JZrrXbNcMM— Global Hoops Daily (@worldhoopsfan) August 8, 2024
The exchange quickly went viral, drawing the attention of NBC announcer Noah Eagle, who observed that Bogdanovic seemed to be directing multiple gestures toward Anthony throughout the game.
However, what started as a bold move by Bogdanovic may have backfired. Fans and analysts alike noticed a shift in Team USA’s intensity following the taunt.
“USA Basketball is hitting the panic button right now; Bogdanovic staring down Carmelo Anthony is the final straw,” one fan remarked on X, capturing the sense of urgency that seemed to grip the American team.
How Bogdan Bogdanovic looks at Carmelo Anthony after every made three: pic.twitter.com/J3GAZ0yn49
— Kyrie Center (@kyriecenterig) August 8, 2024
“Why is Carmelo Anthony getting randomly chirped at by Bogdan Bogdanovic? lol,” another user commented, highlighting the unexpected nature of the interaction.
Sitting alongside former NBA star Dirk Nowitzki, Anthony nearly witnessed one of his longstanding Olympic records fall. Team USA’s Steph Curry closed out the game with 36 points, narrowly missing Anthony’s all-time Olympic record of 37 points, which he set in a 2012 victory over Nigeria.
Ultimately, while Bogdanovic’s taunt provided a viral moment, it may have been the spark that ignited Team USA’s comeback, reminding everyone that in the heat of competition, even the smallest gestures can have big consequences.
