TeamUSA won (99-91) and finished their preparation undefeated, but Team USA had a hard time! Five days before the start of the World Cup, Steve Kerr’s men emerged victorious in a bitter battle against an impressive team ofGermanycarried once again by a large Dennis Schröder (16 points and 10 assists) at the helm of a group that is really very satisfying to watch.
Admittedly victorious, the American formation however did not at all display the same face as against Slovenia or Spain. At least during the first two quarters and a good part of the third, during which the German players, under the impulse of the leader of Toronto so effective on the phases of “pick-and-roll”, absolutely dissected the defense of the United States, far from it. Halfway through the third act, Germany was leading by almost 20 points!
Edwards, the boss of Team USA
Then the Americans woke up. Mainly under the impetus of Tyrese Haliburton and to a lesser degree Austin Reaves, authors of 16 points each, who offered very good passages to give a little life to their team at the end of the third quarter. In less than three minutes, Team USA came back from -16 to -3 (74-71). The hard part is done, and now we have to equalize and take control. In defense, Jaren Jackson Jr, tarp Dennis Schroder. Behind, Anthony Edwards (34 points at 11/21) assumes its responsibilities and plants a 3-pointer to equalize on transition.
A real lifesaver, just like Jackson who still takes out the slap box. On the other side of the field, it is Mikal Bridges who gives the advantage to the Americans.
In the wake of this trio, the Americans stick a 22-5 to Germany to complete the match! Americans who suffered greatly, but who showed impressive strength of character in the second half to finally snatch success with forceps, against this German formation which proved that it will be difficult to maneuver during the World Cup.
Photo credit : United States Basketball
