Dominant Team USA puts Puerto Rico in its place during World Cup warm-up opener

## An Impressive Victory Sets the Stage for Team USA’s World Cup Campaign

LAS VEGAS, AUGUST 8, 2023 – In their first World Cup tune-up game, Team USA demonstrated their dominance with a resounding victory over Puerto Rico. Led by Anthony Edwards and Cam Johnson, who each scored 15 points, the Americans used a powerful 20-0 run in the second half to secure a convincing 117-74 win. With all five starters scoring in double digits and a strong rebounding edge, Team USA showcased their formidable talent and set the tone for the upcoming tournament.

### A Display of Talent and Promise

The game was a mix of spectacular moments, sloppy plays, and both successful and failed attempts at glory. However, the talent disparity between the two teams was evident throughout the match. The victory mirrored Team USA’s highly anticipated performance, as the American squad boasts an impressive roster with players who have excelled in the NBA.

One standout moment came when Paolo Banchero showcased his defensive prowess by virtually blocking a shot with his elbow. Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards’ thunderous dunk almost saw his head touch the backboard, leaving spectators in awe. The crowd at the Las Vegas arena erupted into cheers when Austin Reaves, a player beloved by Lakers fans, stepped onto the court wearing the Team USA jersey. And their applause only grew louder when he sank a jumper mere seconds into his first appearance.

### Preparing for World Cup Redemption

This victory marked the first of five exhibition games leading up to the FIBA World Cup. The remaining games will be held in Spain, the United Arab Emirates, and the Philippines, where the tournament will ultimately take place. The Americans are determined to avenge their disappointing seventh-place finish at the previous World Cup in China, a result that remains the worst in the history of American men’s basketball in a major international competition.

### Looking Ahead to the World Cup

In their quest for redemption, Team USA will face formidable opponents in the group stage of the World Cup. Their journey begins in Manila, where they will compete against New Zealand on August 26, followed by clashes against Greece on August 28 and Jordan on August 30. The squad will then face other top basketball nations in Japan and Indonesia as the tournament progresses.

### A Stellar Start for Team USA

This tune-up victory confirms the talent and potential of the USA Basketball team. With their NBA experience and skill, they have solidified themselves as frontrunners for the World Cup title. The depth of their roster, as highlighted by the scoring contributions from all five starters and the overall teamwork displayed, bodes well for their future performances.

### Tip-Ins

– Puerto Rico, like the United States, will play their group-stage World Cup games in Manila but in a different group. They will face South Sudan, Serbia, and China.
– Tremont Waters, a standout player for Puerto Rico, spent last season playing in France with Boulogne-Levallois, a team that produced Victor Wembanyama, the first overall draft pick and now a member of the San Antonio Spurs.
– Team USA’s victory improves their record to 11-0 in World Cup exhibition games played on American soil and an impressive 24-1 overall in such games. Their sole loss came against Australia in 2019.
– Notably, Austin Reaves and Cam Johnson made their USA Basketball debuts in this game, while Josh Hart was rested and may make his national team debut in Spain.
– Prominent basketball personalities, including three-time Olympic gold medalist Kevin Durant, former USA Basketball managing director Jerry Colangelo, and Olympic medalists Draymond Green and DeMarcus Cousins, were present at the game.

## Editorial: The Path to Redemption

The disappointing finish for Team USA at the previous World Cup in 2019 raised concerns about the state of American men’s basketball on the international stage. However, the impressive display against Puerto Rico suggests that the team has learned from their mistakes and is motivated to reclaim their status as the dominant force in international basketball.

### Rebuilding Trust and Confidence

The American players recognize that they carry the burden of representing their nation and restoring confidence in their abilities. Their determination and focus were notable as they showcased their skills and dominated their opponents. While it is still early in their World Cup campaign, this opening victory highlights a renewed commitment to excellence and a collective effort to bring home the gold.

### The Importance of Team Chemistry

In addition to individual talent, the success of Team USA will depend heavily on their ability to gel as a team. Through five exhibition games and intensive training sessions leading up to the tournament, the players will need to establish strong camaraderie and develop a seamless connection on the court. Building trust and effective communication will be crucial elements for their success.

### Facing Stiff Competition

The road to redemption will not be easy for Team USA. They will face fierce competition from basketball powerhouses such as Greece, Spain, and Slovenia, as well as other nations eager to make their mark on the international stage. To overcome these challenges, the American squad must remain focused, adapt their strategy to counter opposing teams, and maintain their composure under pressure.

### Advice: Embrace the Underdog Mentality

While Team USA is undoubtedly one of the tournament favorites, they should not underestimate their opponents. The past World Cup demonstrated that any team can pose a threat. Maintaining a humble yet determined mentality will guard against complacency and motivate the players to give their best performance. The underdog mentality can be a powerful source of inspiration and help in overcoming adversity.

### Final Thoughts

Team USA’s dominant performance in their World Cup tune-up opener sends a clear message to their competitors: they are ready for redemption. The talent, teamwork, and hunger for success displayed in this victory serve as a promising sign for American basketball fans across the globe. As the journey to the World Cup unfolds, all eyes will be on Team USA as they seek to reclaim their place atop the international basketball hierarchy.