MANILA, Philippines — It goes against the typical philosophy of Montenegro head coach Boško Radović, but his national team faced an atypical opponent in Friday's second-round matchup at the FIBA World Cup, drawing Team USA's loaded roster that features a dozen NBA players. So with two days to prepare for the undefeated Americans, Radović concocted various defensive looks and other devices to thwart Team USA's zippy scoring attack that hung 110 points against Jordan on Wednesday.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES - SEPTEMBER 01: Austin Reaves #15 of the United States looks for a pass against Vladimir Mihailovic #3 and Nemanja Radovic #11 of Montenegro in the fourth quarter during the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2nd Round Group J game at Mall of Asia Arena on September 01, 2023 in Manila, Philippines.
“Even, like, substitutions after free throws,” said Team USA guard Austin Reaves said. “Not being able to let us get out and go.” Only reserve ball-handler Tyrese Haliburton entered the game to instant offensive success, drilling a pull-up 3-pointer on the right wing as his Montenegrin man afforded him too much space. Then Haliburton ripped a steal at halfcourt soon after, cruising for a runaway two-hand flush that gave the Americans their first lead, 19-18, at the end of the first quarter since opening with a 2-0 edge.
Last outing, Kerr’s biggest adjustment came in the starting lineup, where he swapped all-hustle swingman Josh Hart into Team USA’s first group in place of Brandon Ingram. This time around, Kerr’s key change came at the end of the contest, keeping Haliburton and Reaves on the floor for the entire final frame to finish the grueling battle alongside Edwards, Mikal Bridges and Jaren Jackson Jr.
“It just feels different,” Edwards said of playing with Haliburton and Reaves. “They’re a great, great, great group to play with. They’re a great one-two punch.”
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Takeaways from Team USA's FIBA World Cup win over JordanAnthony Edwards impresses on both ends while Brandon Ingram is still trying to find his rhythm with Team USA. Plus, a historic game for Jordan.
Read more »
USA vs Montenegro Predictions & Odds - 2023 FIBA World CupFIBA World Cup predictions, odds, and betting tips for USA vs Montenegro on September 1. FIBA World Cup betting free pick and SGP.
Read more »
USA vs. Montenegro FREE LIVE STREAM (9/1/23): Watch FIBA World Cup second round onlineUSA faces Montenegro in the second round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup on Friday, September 1, 2023 (9/1/23) at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, Philippines.
Read more »
FIBA World Cup: Luka Doncic, Slovenia def. Cape Verde to advance; U.S. rolls vs. JordanDoncic is now set to face off against fellow Maverick Josh Green and the Australian national team on Friday.
Read more »
OKC Thunder: 2023 FIBA World Cup Update Entering Second RoundLooking ahead at the second round of the 2023 FIBA World Cup, what is in store for the five members of the Oklahoma City Thunder playing in the tournament?
Read more »
Canada vs Brazil Predictions & Odds - 2023 FIBA World CupFIBA World Cup predictions, odds, and betting tips for Canada vs Brazil on September 1. FIBA World Cup betting free pick and SGP.
Read more »