Experience the incredible tenacity of USA Basketball as they confidently stride onto the global stage of the World Cup, preserving an impeccable exhibition track record that challenges all expectations.
Anthony Edwards takes the spotlight with an astonishing display of 34 points, as Austin Reaves and Tyrese Haliburton amaze with 16 points apiece coming off the bench. The U.S. orchestrates a resurgence, eradicating a formidable 16-point deficit in the second half to triumph over Germany 99-91. Final moments ignite a heart-racing 18-0 surge, propelling the Americans from the precipice and culminating their exhibition season with an impeccable 5-0 record.
Coach Steve Kerr ponders over the team’s freshly discovered determination, remarking, “What truly strikes a chord is their steadfast bravery. However, our capabilities are still unexplored, surpassing those of numerous rivals. Unlike the majority of teams, our ceiling is elevated thanks to our ongoing development and transformation on our way to Manila.”
Edwards dominates the playing field, nailing 11 of 21 shots and an impeccable 8 of 8 from the line. Surpassing the combined score of the U.S. starters by nine points, his exceptional performance stands as a testament to his prowess.
USA World Cup Schedule
- Aug. 26: New Zealand (8:40 AM ET)
- Aug. 28: Greece (8:40 AM ET)
- Aug. 30: Jordan (4:40 AM ET)
Kerr confidently underscores Edwards’ essential contribution, declaring, “Undoubtedly, he stands as the cornerstone. He recognizes it, and presently, the entire team is in unanimous agreement.”
Edwards isn’t the sole architect of the turnaround. The resurgence initiates deep into the third quarter, fueled by Haliburton’s extraordinary outburst of 11 points in less than three minutes. This astounding accomplishment trims the U.S.’s disadvantage to a mere three points, setting ablaze a glimmer of optimism.
Germany battles fiercely, holding its ground. Moritz Wagner’s clutch 3-pointer propels them to an 86-77 advantage with 6:58 remaining. Yet, the tide shifts as Germany falters, missing eight consecutive shots. Seizing the moment, the Americans seize an exhilarating 18-point streak, retaking the lead definitively with Mikal Bridges’ 3-pointer at 2:15.
Germany’s Franz Wagner puts on a display of his prowess, notching 17 points. This performance is enhanced by Dennis Schroder’s contribution of 16 points and 10 assists, and Moritz Wagner’s 14 points.
Even with just a brief 2.5 weeks of training, the U.S. team displays impressive unity. They established their supremacy during the preparatory phase, securing wins in Las Vegas against Puerto Rico (117-74), triumphing over Slovenia in Spain (92-62, with Luka Doncic missing), and prevailing against Spain (98-88). Their expedition culminated in Abu Dhabi, where they asserted their dominance by overcoming Greece 108-86 and culminating in a pulse-pounding victory against Germany.
