After Vincent Collet, it was Grant Hill who reacted to the 2023 World Cup draw. The United States fell into Group C where they will face Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Greece, New Zealand and Jordan. Then, they will cross with Group D where we find Lithuania, Mexico, Egypt and Montenegro. A rather lenient draw for the new manager of Team USA.
“It’s really good to finally know our opponents from the first round, but also those we could play in the second round” appreciates Hill, questioned by The Athletic. “We are perfectly aware that a possible duel against France can only happen in the semi-finals. It’s also great to be in one place, unlike 2019.”
Further preparation
On USA Basketball’s official website, Hill spoke about preparing for the United States with a stint in the Middle East. But first there will be matches against Slovenia (August 12) and Spain (August 13) in Malaga, Spain. Then, on August 18 and 20, the schedule includes friendly matches against Greece and Germany in Abu Dhabi.
“It’s motivating to have the opportunity for us to face solid opposition ahead of our World Cup experience,” Hill said. “Usually we play one or two games in the United States and then we go directly to the venue of the World Cup or the Olympics. This time it is important for us to have these matches. »
Then, departure for Manila to face New Zealand on August 26, then Greece on August 28 and finally Jordan on August 30. As Hill points out, Team USA will play the entire competition in the same venue, the Mall of Asia Arena.
