Forced to forfeit due to the Covid, Bradley Beal gave way to Keldon Johnson in the squad of Team USA and Zach LaVine in the major five.
A fair reward for those who have been part of the real satisfactions since the beginning of the preparation. “Everyone knows I can score points” recalled the principal concerned during a press conference. “Any role would suit me. I’m here to help bring home the gold and keep learning. “
Before the match against Spain, Zach LaVine said he was ready for any eventuality. “Whatever the role it will suit me. If Pop (Popovich) puts me in the major five, that’s fine. If I get off the bench like before and play 6-7-8 minutes, that’ll be fine too. We will see how things will evolve. Over the last few days, I played a few minutes as a starter and others off the bench. “
Holder or not, the back of the Bulls knows what he can bring to get the Olympic gold medal. “I think my role is to bring energy, to put pressure on the ball and to do whatever is necessary. They need my points but also my facilitator side. Regardless of my role, I have to show how I can influence winning. “
Undefeated as a holder
If his status as a substitute in the first two games may have made him doubt, Zach LaVine has shown his advantage against the Argentines. “In the first game I really wanted to put the pressure on. They wanted me to try to make an impact in defense. In the second game, we spun around a bit, it often happens in friendlies and in the third game, with the absence of Jayson Tatum, I played my game more. I started, I had a defensive impact while being aggressive on the other side of the floor. “
His good pass was confirmed against Spain where he was one of the major players in the second half. On this meeting, he finished with 13 points (5/8 shooting and 3/5 3-point) 2 rebounds and 2 assists in 22 minutes.
On his two starts, the former Minnesota dunker scored 14 points (62.5% shooting, 57% from distance and 80% from the throwing line) took 3.5 rebounds and delivered 2.5 assists per game. Since being inducted into the five, Team USA is even unbeaten even though there have only been two games played.
The player enjoys the FIBA format despite the differences with the game developed in the NBA. “The NBA game is much faster. There is more back and forth but I like the physical game of FIBA basketball. It’s different. We can really use our hands for defense and physical play. The NBA allows it sometimes but not a whole game. “
