33 Across

NYT Daily • August 6, 2025

Team ___

Answer:

USA

Hint:

"Here’s a helpful hint for the clue "Team ___": "This three-letter abbreviation is often seen on jerseys at the Olympics." This hint guides the solver toward the context (international sports) and the format (abbreviation) without giving away the answer directly. It’s easier than the original clue but still requires a small leap of reasoning."

Explanation:

The clue "Team ___" is a straightforward fill-in-the-blank prompt that hints at a well-known phrase or name associated with a team. The answer "USA" fits because it completes the phrase "Team USA," which is the common nickname for the United States' national sports teams (e.g., in the Olympics or other international competitions).