Team USA's Final Tune-up
In team USA's final tune-up, Anthony Davis led his team in an expected blowout victory over Slovenia 101-71. Davis dominated the game on both ends of the court dropping 18 points, 9 rebounds, 5 blocks and 3 steals in only 19 minutes of action. The major news before the game was Coach Mike Krzyzewski's decision to start Cleveland's Kyrie Irving at the point over Derrick Rose. Coach K came out and said that he can envision Rose and Irving flipping back and forth starting for the men's national team. Coach K also said he can see them playing in the backcourt together. Rose laid a major dud in this game in most every possible stat category. Rose scored only 3 points on 0-3 shooting from the floor and 3-6 shooting from the line. Rose had a rebound and an assist to go along with 3 turnovers in 20 minutes. Everyone has to wonder about Derrick Rose and his knees, especially after Paul George was lost for the NBA season after injuring his leg in an exhibition game.
Team USA has already made their final roster cuts. The decision to cut Damian Lillard, Chandler Parsons, Kyle Korver and Gordon Hayward was strictly business. Coach K and his coaching staff decided to keep the roster stocked with big bodies to beef up the front court. If this team should go to the Finals of the FIBA Basketball World Cup on September 14th, they will most likely square off against Spain. Spain boasts a strong front court full of NBA players OKC's Serge Ibaka, and the Gasol brothers, Marc & Pau. To take home the gold medal, team USA had to go big and keep Anthony Davis, Andre Drummond, DeMarcus Cousins and Mason Plumlee. Team USA faces major questions after NBA superstar Kevin Durant decided to withdraw from the team and Paul George was lost due to a gruesome leg injury. The national team will begin FIBA World Cup play on Saturday, August 30th against Finland.
By Steven Spector - 8-26-14
