Team USA is closing in on its play in the FIBA World Cup, which begins on Sept. 1 in China. However, for now, the U.S. National Team is still in the midst of its exhibition schedule, with a two-game set against Australia on tap.
After a slow start Thursday, the U.S. Men’s National Team stayed perfect in its exhibition schedule play with a 102-86 win against Australia. Team USA led 22-20 after the first quarter, but found itself up only one point at halftime after Australia guard and San Antonio Spurs standout Patty Mills nailed a 3-pointer as time ticked down.
The third quarter was a different story as the U.S. team forged a 76-61 lead behind big scoring performances from starting guards Kemba Walker (23 points) and Donovan Mitchell (13 points). In addition, starting center Myles Turner was more than solid in the middle, contributing 15 points and 14 rebounds.
* USA vs. Australia: Game Recap | Box score
Australia was led by Mills (19 points) and Chris Goulding (19 points).
The teams played this morning in the first of two exhibition games in Melbourne. A record Australian basketball crowd of 50,000-plus fans was forecast for the match at Marvel Stadium. The second game is set for Saturday.
Here’s the buzz from the game as it took place early Thursday morning.
Twitter collection of latest from USA-Australia exhibition game:
