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The 2021 Summer Olympics in Tokyo is set to begin on Friday with the opening ceremonies. Men’s basketball play begins the following day with Iran and Czech Republic in action as part of four games over the opening weekend of the Games.
Men’s basketball Olympics Saturday, July 24 and Sunday, July 25
Iran vs. Czech Republic
Time: 9:00 p.m. ET Saturday
TV channel: TBD
Live stream: NBCOlympics.com
Spread: Czech Republic -17
Over/under: 149.5
Moneyline odds: Iran +800, Czech Republic -1375
Czech Republic is heavily favored in this one, coming into the tournament with an experienced group with playing experience across the world. Chicago Bulls guard Tomas Satoransky is on this team and will be looking to build his value heading into a contract season.
Germany vs. Italy
Time: 12:40 a.m. ET Sunday
TV channel: TBD
Live stream: NBCOlympics.com
Spread: Italy -4.5
Over/under: 157.5
Moneyline odds: Germany +170, Italy -200
Italy is slightly favored here with Danilo Gallinari and Nico Mannion on the roster. Germany has some NBA talent as well with Mo Wagner and Isaac Bonga but the Italians have more experience and are expected to be in contention for a medal.
Australia vs. Nigeria
Time: 4:20 a.m. ET Sunday
TV channel: TBD
Live stream: NBCOlympics.com
Spread: Australia -7.5
Over/under: 171
Moneyline odds: Australia -335, Nigeria +260
Both clubs beat the United States in exhibition play and feature a wealth of NBA talent. Australia is slowly becoming known to produce top players out of the NBL and will be a team to watch at the Games. Nigeria has a young squad led by veteran NBA coach Mike Brown and is an easy group to root for. A spicy Twitter account after wins also helps.
USA vs. France
Time: 8:00 a.m. ET Sunday
TV channel: NBC Sports Network replay at midnight ET Sunday night (Monday morning)
Live stream: NBCOlympics.com
Spread: USA -12
Over/under: 177
Moneyline odds: USA -850, France +575
The USA gets a rough draw to start out the Olympics with an experienced, talented group in France. Team USA is without Bradley Beal and Zach LaVine due to health and safety protocols. Kevin Durant and Damian Lillard should be able to see the Americans home here, but Rudy Gobert, Nicolas Batum and Evan Fournier are a decent trio.