When Grant Hill and the USA Basketball Board of Directors assembled this year’s version of Team USA, these are the types of games they likely envisioned. From the opening tip, the United States had a noticeably fastened pep in their step and each of their starters scored in double figures. As a result, they cruised to a wire-to-wire, stress-free 108-80 victory over Argentina.
Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard quickly made himself a focus, scoring all 13 of his points in the first half. He played the all-around game, adding three rebounds and four assists on 4-of-9 shooting, helping Team USA to their first win in three tries during the exhibitions.