North America had a day to forget at the FIBA World Cup in Manila. Just hours after Canada lost to Serbia, Germany picked Team USA apart Friday.
Led by a 21-point, seven-rebound performance from Daniel Theis, Germany — which won, 113-111 — was clearly the better team. Steve Kerr’s offensive system failed to get the best out of his big men, with Jaren Jackson Jr., Paolo Banchero, and Bobby Portis combining for just 19 points.
Team USA looked a unit that relied on individual play instead team play. Even Anthony Edwards’ exceptional play (23 points, eight rebounds, three assists) couldn’t get the USA into the World Cup final.
Germany was never going to be an easy opponent. Last year, at the EuroBasket competition, Germany flashed the upside of potential world champions.
“The game has been globalized over the last 30 years or so,” Kerr said following Team USA’s loss. “These games are difficult. This is not 1992 anymore. Players are better all over the world. Teams are better. And it’s not easy to win a World Cup or an Olympic Games.”
