Before flying to Spain, in particular to challenge Luka Doncic’s Slovenia, Team USA began its series of friendly matches on Monday evening with the reception of Puerto Rico. It was in Las Vegas, at the T-Mobile Arena, and Steve Kerr’s players made short work of the Puerto Ricans with a 43-point victory (117-74).
A new starter, Wolves fullback Anthony Edwards was the most prominent with 15 points, 4 assists and 4 steals on 7 of 12 on shots. At his side, Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson signs a double-double (11 points, 12 rebounds) and Mikal Bridges adds 14 points. Considered the best player at the start of the rally, Jaren Jackson Jr. started strong, before being limited by faults. He finished with 12 points, 7 rebounds and 2 blocks, and we note that Kerr used Paolo Banchero as an understudy.
On the side of the bench, Tyrese Haliburton distributed 12 assists, and Cam Johnson scored 15 points. Opposite, Tremont Waters, former teammate of Victor Wembanyama, finished top scorer with 17 points.
Team USA takes off for Spain
If the gap can impress, you should know that the United States waited for the 2nd half to make the difference. Blame it on a big clumsiness at 3-points with a 2 of 15 from afar in the first half. Result, at the break, the Americans only led 50-43. Returning from the locker room, Edwards then pulls out the big game with 11 points, and the United States can then unfold their basketball with a 20-2 to kill all suspense.
Tomorrow, Edwards’ teammates pack their bags for Spain where they will face Slovenia and Spain. Then take off for Abu Dhabi to challenge Greece and Germany.
