Even if these are only friendlies, and the opponents of the United States are highly motivated, we note that Team USA lost again last night in Las Vegas.
After Nigeria, Australia won 91-83 against Gregg Popovich’s men. If we take into account the 2019 World Cup, it is the 4th defeat in five matches for the Americans… It is also the second loss in a row against Australia, already winner of Team USA there two years in preparation for the World Cup.
However, everything had started well with the Americans, led by Damian Lillard (22 points) and Kevin Durant (17 points). Much more aggressive in defense and led by a great Damian Lillard (11 points in the first quarter), Team USA had won the first quarter 27-24 in an address start: 55% for the Americans, and 59% for Australians.
It is in the second quarter that Team USA will offer its biggest gap of the match (46-35) with a defense that limits the Australians to 13 points in 10 minutes. At the break, the Americans lead 46-37. But the return to the locker room will be catastrophic, especially in defense. Led by a super Patty Mills, the Boomers reverse the course of the match, and win the third quarter (32-18). At the start of the 4th quarter, Matisse Thybulle’s teammates are ahead (69-64).
No points in the last three minutes
Thanks to Kevin Durant, then Draymond Green, Team USA equalizes (80-80), then Jayson Tatum gives them the advantage (82-80). But Australia responded with a 6-0, and with three minutes remaining, Gregg Popovich was forced to take a time-out. Kevin Durant only throws in two (86-83), and it will be the last American point!
Behind, Patty Mills scores near the circle on a pass from Matthew Dellavedova (88-83). Tatum sends an airball, Durant then Lillard also miss their shots, and despite the efforts of Draymond Green, rebound and block, Joe Ingles is going to score the last basket of the game for a victory 91-83. Second loss in two games for Team USA dominated in racket with 44 points to 24 for the Australians in paint, but also 32 rebounds to 25.
Next opponent of Team USA, Argentina, and it is tonight.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NA1SG34wE94
