At this point, it has been apparent that the conquest for gold for the US men’s basketball team won’t be the same as the Dream Team nor the Redeem Team. However, this isn’t also the time to panic.
A tough lesson against Nigeria and Australia
Headlined by Kevin Durant, Damian Lillard, and Bradley Beal, the U.S. were the clear-cut favorites entering their first exhibition game against Nigeria. Unfortunately, U.S. fell to Nigeria after losing 90-87. This marked the third exhibition loss since the dream team in 1992.
Hoping for a bounce-back game, the men’s basketball team faced a familiar foe against the Australian National Team who historically beaten the U.S. during a tune-up game for the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
What went wrong for the U.S. National Team?
After coming short against the Boomers, we could now say that something is off for the U.S. National team. Going against teams who have been playing together for a long time, while team USA has just practiced two days before their first game and has not adjusted to the style of play that FIBA allows.
Take for example Tatum’s offensive foul when he slightly shoved a defender with his right hand. This move was constantly ignored in the NBA, however, it is constantly called at the international level.
Is this a time for panic? Of course not. The team is still waiting for the arrival of Devin Booker, Jrue Holiday, and Khris Middleton who are currently playing in the NBA finals. After all, team USA is expected to win it all in Tokyo.
