The USA Basketball Team started their FIBA World Cup campaign with a win by beating the Tall Blacks 99-72 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay. The Kiwi’s were able to lead by as much as 10 points in the first quarter with their defense being the key, as the US team were very shaky at the start of the opening quarter. 

The key adjustment in the game was when Steve Kerr opted to go ‘small ball’ with Paulo Banchero, Tyrese Haliburton, Josh Hart, Cam Johnson and fan-favorite Austin Reaves, who got the the loudest cheers all night long from the fans in the MOA Arena. Reaves played a crucial role in this game and the Laker guard did not disappoint, as he entertained the 10,978 fans present  for this game, with his flashy moves and scoring prowess. He ended the night with 12 points on 4-6 shooting and 6 assists, silencing more of his critics.

Team USA pulled away in the third quarter, as Orlando Magic forward and reigning NBA Rookie of the Year, Paulo Banchero came up big with 21 points while going 8-10 from the field and got Player of the Game honors. The Americans looked more comfortable and confident in the second half as they were able to woo the crowd with their dazzling passes and explosive dunks. 

The USA Basketball Team will go back to the drawing board tomorrow and prepare for their next game against the Greeks which is slated on the 28th of August with tip-off set at 8:40pm (Manila time).

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