In demonstration against a modest Slovenia because deprived of Luka Doncic, this Saturday, the Team USA by Steve Kerr calmly continues his preparation for the World Cup, after a first success against Puerto Rico.
Not particularly exciting from the point of view of the stakes, this meeting nevertheless made it possible to observe the game plan and the identity which are beginning to be forged within the American group. And beyond the obvious observations, namely that Team USA, as usual, is more athletic than the average, we have above all been able to note a desire by Steve Kerr and his players to play as quickly as possible, both on transition than on half court.
” We built this team with plans to field several good creators together. And as you can see after these two games, each player is a willing setter, so we want to push the tempo, but also attack the closeouts frequently, because we space the field and can create infinite play. “, Appreciated the coach of the Warriors, after a match with 26 assists for 39 baskets for Team USA.
A middle ground still to be found
A total of passes that could have been even higher according to Steve Kerr, who felt that his team had even been too altruistic at times! ” We over-rotated at times. For example, we refused 3-point shots to attack the circle and then come out. Of course, as a coach, I will never criticize my players for doing this, because I always want the ball to circulate. “, he adds, before contextualizing his thought. ” But in FIBA basketball, an open 3-point shot is probably the best option, because we know that if we attack the circle, it’s going to be physical and there won’t be many fouls called. »
The American formation must therefore still adjust some habits, but overall the product displayed in attack is convincing. It’s not particularly revolutionary, but effective, because motivated by a desire to find the right shot. All while enjoying an undeniable physical and athletic advantage. It is no coincidence that the 12 players in the squad all scored yesterday, and that five of them were between 7 and 9 points…
” In every game, literally anyone on our team can be the top scorer », judged by the way Austin Reaves. ” So far, the brand is well distributed, and that’s what we want. We also want to play fast, because we have a rich squad and can make a lot of changes and maintain a high pace. »
The ultimate test to come
Next outing for the American team: tonight, against Spain. The first real test for Team USA, against the best selection in the world in the FIBA rankings, reigning world champion and European champion. A new victory with style, and the formation of Steve Kerr would undeniably appear as the big favorite, ahead of this World Cup…
” It’s going to be a big game for us, because it’s our only real away game during our preparation “, concludes the American technician. ” Spain is the title champion and represents a very big challenge. They are a physical team, so they will test us. »
