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In a dazzling display of athletic prowess and strategic execution, Team USA wrapped up its five-day training camp in preparation for the upcoming FIBA World Cup. Their performance on Monday night was a clear indication of their intentions, as they handed Puerto Rico a crushing defeat, with a final scoreline of 117-74.
The result is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the players and coaching staff, led by Steve Kerr, in their pursuit of a gold medal in next month's championship in the Philippines.
Steve Kerr's Debut Victory
Steve Kerr, who took the helm as the head coach of the senior national team for the first time, expressed his elation after the triumph. "It's a great night for us," he remarked, underlining the significant progress made by the team.
Kerr stressed the importance of adapting to the FIBA rules and the distinct nuances that come with it. He mentioned, "It's all part of the process of getting accustomed to what we're going to be facing." Jalen Brunson, who was instrumental in Monday night's performance with 11 points and 12 rebounds in just 22 minutes, echoed Kerr's sentiments.
The point guard emphasized the team's focus on defense saying, "It took us a while to get going, but when we're playing the defensive side of the ball and getting stops and turnovers and running, it's pretty fun for us."
The Dynamic Line-up
Brunson, who has frequently been recognized as the team's leader by Kerr, spearheaded the line-up which also featured stars like Anthony Edwards, Mikal Bridges, Brandon Ingram, and Jaren Jackson Jr.
The synergy between these elite players was palpable, with each bringing a unique skill set to the court. Brandon Ingram, commenting on the team's chemistry, pointed out how effectively they gelled together. He noted, "We got two scorers on the wing, a point guard that gets everything organized, [Jaren] the defensive player of the year, and Mikal who moves everywhere and finds open spots... it's a good dynamic."
