One of the Olympics’ most widely anticipated bouts fell short of expectations. After a slow start, Team USA dominated Serbia, winning 110-84. The solid start positions the team well for the remainder of the group stage and provides a confidence boost following a close loss to South Sudan before to the games.

Despite falling behind early, the United States rallied, thanks in large part to 23 points from Kevin Durant, who returned after missing the majority of camp with a calf injury. Durant went a perfect 5 for 5 from beyond the arc and transformed the game dynamic when he entered in the first quarter, scoring 21 points in the first half alone. LeBron James also had a strong performance, with 21 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds.

If only David Stern had witnessed the show. The late NBA commissioner’s aim of expanding the greatest levels of basketball far beyond the confines of the United States could not be more clear than the reigning, three-time NBA MVP entering the first game of his Olympics tournament against Team USA. Nikola Jokić could not lead Serbia to victory on Sunday. The Denver Nuggets big man scored 20 points for his home country but couldn’t cut into the United States’ second-half lead.

James, Durant, and the other of Team USA’s potential Hall of Famers will compete in Paris, facing South Sudan and Puerto Rico in the group stage. The Dream Team is aiming for its eighth gold medal in nine Olympics appearances since 1992, when it initially featured NBA players.