USA Overcome Australia in Olympic Basketball Warmup

The USA basketball team held on for a 98-92 victory over Australia in an Olympic basketball warmup game in Abu Dhabi. Despite a sloppy second half, the Americans managed to overcome their own mistakes and secure the win.

USA Basketball Team in Action

The Boomers, led by Jock Landale’s impressive 20 points and seven offensive rebounds, pushed the US till the very end. However, Tyrese Haliburton’s consecutive three-pointers in the fourth quarter sealed the game for the Americans.

“We started turning the ball over,” said USA coach Steve Kerr, reflecting on the game. “We gave up a ton of points at the basket. Back cuts, offensive boards and so, the game shifted.”

Kerr’s decision to shuffle the starting lineup at halftime proved to be a masterstroke, as the second unit comprising Haliburton, Jrue Holiday, Bam Adebayo, Anthony Davis, and Devin Booker changed the game’s momentum. This unit, which has become a clear trend for the US team, showcased their incredible depth and ability to replace All-Stars with other All-Stars.

Team USA’s Deep Bench

Australia’s Josh Giddey piloted the Boomers confidently, scoring 17 points, grabbing eight rebounds, and dishing out seven assists. Dyson Daniels, Will Magnay, and Jack McVeigh also made significant contributions off the bench. However, Patty Mills’ cold shooting form continued, as he managed only five points, three rebounds, two assists, and two steals in 22 minutes.

“The exciting part was we got better as the game went on,” said Australia coach Brian Goorjian. “My job right now is to convince my team, ‘How do you win?’ We came back with the style we wanted to play and it came through the defense.”

The US will next face Serbia in the Abu Dhabi showcase, followed by two more exhibition games in London before the Olympics. Australia will also play Serbia before heading to France to start their Olympic campaign against Spain on July 27.

The 2024 Paris Olympics Await