Team USA defeated Nigeria in their final international friendly on Monday in preparation of the 2016 Olympics in Rio.
Team USA regained their shooting touch in a big way in their final Olympic tune-up game against Nigeria. After making only three three-pointers against Venezuela last Friday, the U.S. Men's National Team sank thirteen shots from range, bolstered by eight combined from Warriors duo Klay Thompson and Kevin Durant. Thompson and Durant helped kick-start the scoring for Team USA, as they were the first players on either team to reach double figures in points. The team defense was once again strong as Team USA closed out a sweep of their showcase series games.
Durant was sinking his shots from the onset of the game, converting on a four-point play early in the contest. Thompson, who hit two of the team's threes against Venezuela last Friday, picked up right where he left off hitting two shots from beyond the arc in the quarter. Team USA had the game firmly in their grasp with a 27-14 lead after one period.
The hot starts from Durant and Thompson continued into the second quarter, and they helped lead an efficient U.S. offense all game. They each reached double figures in the second quarter, the first players to do so, and were a combined five-for-eight from outside in the first half. Draymond Green continued his all-around role for Team USA, going one-for-three from the field but coming down with six rebounds and generating offense on the strength of three assists.
Team USA took a dominating 110-66 victory against Nigeria, continuing their momentum heading into the Rio Olympic Games. The outside shooting of Durant and Thompson, paired with the versatility of Green, will be needed for the team to continue their undefeated run through the Olympic tournament. The U.S. Men's National team will take on China in the group stage of the Olympics on August 6th.