Serious and authoritative, Team USA corrects Greece again

After dominating New Zealand in two opening rounds, the UNITED STATES found this time the Greece for their second meeting world Cup. In other words, their strongest opponent in Pool C, winner of Jordan at the start of the competition and whom they had quietly beaten in Abu Dhabi ten days ago.

The match starts on bases as offensive as rhythmic and, without Giannis, it is Papagiannis –Georgios of his first name– who makes miseries to Team USA, with 11 points in the first quarter alone. To stand up to him, these are Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges And Jaren Jackson Jr. who take turns in scoring, just to place their team in charge despite some unfortunate ball losses (23-19).

In the second quarter, thanks in particular to Austin Reaves And Paolo Banchero, the United States raise the tone in defense without slowing down the pace in attack, all with their substitutes on the floor. Inevitably, clumsy at 3-pointers, Greece let go of the score, while also struggling to defend without making a mistake and preventing their opponents from developing their fast game. Once the holders are back on each side, the gap will stabilize around ten points until the break (50-37).

Returning from the locker room, Jalen Brunson and Anthony Edwards are responsible for further increasing the American lead, without the Greeks failing to hold the shock, exploding offensively and defensively. Coming off the bench, Austin Reaves and the hyperactive Josh Hart take over from the incumbents to kill all suspense even before the start of the fourth quarter (79-56).

The last ten minutes of this game will therefore be of little interest, as Steve Kerr’s men are above the rest and are heading for their second victory in two games (109-81). A success synonymous with qualification for the second round, while the twelve American players played and above all scored points. Proof that the collective works well and that this team has resources, excelling on quick play (32 points in transition), dominating on the rebound (48, including 10 offensive) and attacking relentlessly (30/34 in throws).

Photo credit: FIBA.com