The United States began its FIBA World Cup campaign with a 88-67 win over the Czech Republic.
With the NBA’s top-tier stars choosing to stay home for the tournament, USA coach Gregg Popovich’s squad presented a balanced scoring effort in its World Cup opener. Four of the United State’s five starters finished the game scoring in double digits.
"This is the first time these guys have played together," Popovich said, "so when we see that we’re trusting each other, whether it’s ... making the extra pass at the offensive end or playing the defense that we played tonight, it’s encouraging.