The United States looked to close out group play in a big way by battling with Puerto Rico, led by former LSU star Tremont Waters and New Orleans Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
The first quarter was a back-and-forth affair with Puerto Rico holding a 29-25 lead. They were led by nine points from New Orleans Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado.
Early in the second quarter, the United States scored six straight points to regain the lead with 8:30 left in the first half. As the second quarter went on, the US started to separate themselves thanks to 12 points from Anthony Edwards and eight points from Kevin Durant. However, Alvarado and Puerto Rico were hanging with the US throughout the quarter, keeping it within a two-possession game.
At the end of the first half, the US went on a big run to take a 19-point lead into the locker room. Edwards continued to lead the way with 12 points while Durant, Jayson Tatum, and Stephen Curry each had eight.
Puerto Rico battled early in the third quarter, matching the US shot for shot but the run at the end of the half kept the Americans ahead. After three quarters of play, the US continued to pace the game with an 87-59 advantage. Edwards was up to 17 points to lead the Americans while Alvarado led Puerto Rico with 18.
Puerto Rico had a big run in the fourth quarter, but it wouldn’t be enough to catch the US in a 104-83 final. Anthony Edwards was dominant for the Stars and Stripes with 26 points.
BIG NUMBER: 23
The United States outscored Puerto Rico 39-16 in the second quarter, setting themselves up for a big third win in group play.
PLAYER OF THE GAME: Anthony Edwards
The Minnesota Timberwolves star was electric with 26 points on 11-15 shooting off the bench.
UP NEXT: The US will have the top seed in the knockout stage of the tournament as they will try to win another gold medal in men’s basketball.