Team USA escaped past Montenegro.
There was little chance for fans to cheer for Austin Reaves in Team USA’s hard-fought 85-73 win over Montenegro in the second round of the FIBA World Cup on Friday.
That’s because the game saw the most popular player in the team take only two shots —both from the three-point area. But he still came up with 12 points thanks to 9 made free throws.
Whether it’s because of the lineup change, a coaching decision, or Montenegro simply making it tough for him, the Los Angeles Lakers rising star, who was averaging over 6 attempts per game in the group phase, doesn’t really mind.
“I don’t really care,” Reaves told the media politely after the match on Friday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
For Reaves, what matters is winning the gold medal at the end of the tournament co-hosted by Japan and Indonesia.
“As long as at the end of the day we can win gold, I’ll go home with a biggest smile on my face,” said Reaves, who also had 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals.
The Americans had a hard time against the Nikola Vucevic-led squad and were even down by a whisker at halftime. But they managed to break free in the final minutes, with Reaves making his only field goal at the 2:44 mark to give the team a 75-68 victory.
While the team rued the ugly start, there were lessons in adversity that will certainly make the youthful team better.
“We didn't start the game the way we wanted to. It wasn’t the prettiest game but it’s what FIBA games really are,” said Tyrese haliburton, who finished with 10 points, 2 rebounds, and 6 assists, and 2 steals.
“Any time you win you feel good about it, but we definitely want to watch film and see how we’re gonna be better and prepare for Lithuania.”
Team USA will take on Lithuania next.
(MDB)