Team USA continued its pre-Olympic exhibition slate with a narrow victory over the Australian national team, holding on for a 98-92 win. The exhibition, held at Etihad Arena, saw the Americans nearly squander a 24-point lead before regaining control in the final minutes.
Anthony Davis led the charge for USA Basketball, putting up 17 points and grabbing 14 rebounds in just 18 minutes of play. His dominant performance on both ends of the court was crucial in staving off the Boomers’ spirited comeback attempt. Tyrese Haliburton also played a pivotal role, sinking two critical three-pointers late in the game to halt Australia’s momentum.
Head coach Steve Kerr made adjustments to the starting lineup for this matchup. Anthony Edwards and Jayson Tatum were inserted into the starting five, joining LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Joel Embiid. This lineup change appeared effective early on as Team USA surged ahead, leading by as many as 24 points in the second half.
Edwards, named a starter alongside established stars, did not disappoint. He scored 14 points, demonstrating his scoring prowess and contributing significantly to Team USA’s early dominance. LeBron James, Joel Embiid, and Bam Adebayo each added 10 points, showcasing the depth and talent of this American squad.
Despite the early lead, the Americans faced challenges as the game progressed. Turnovers proved costly, with Team USA committing 18 turnovers, allowing Australia to claw back into contention. The Boomers capitalized on these mistakes, reducing the deficit to just four points in the final moments of the game.
Australia’s Jock Landale led his team with 20 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Josh Giddey also put on an impressive display, contributing 17 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. Their efforts, combined with a strong showing from Dyson Daniels, nearly propelled the Boomers to an upset.
However, Haliburton’s late-game heroics, with two crucial three-pointers, extended Team USA’s lead and ultimately sealed the victory. Devin Booker also played a key role, scoring 16 points and making a crucial mid-range jumper in the final minute to help secure the win.
Coach Kerr acknowledged the sloppy play in the third quarter and the final minutes, highlighting the importance of reducing turnovers and improving defensive communication. “We gave up a ton of points at the basket. Back cuts, offensive boards – the game shifted,” Kerr said. “It’s a good lesson for us. Better to learn that lesson now than later.”
With the Paris Olympics less than two weeks away, Team USA has little time to iron out these issues. The team will play Serbia next in Abu Dhabi before heading to London for two more exhibition games. These matchups are critical for building chemistry and fine-tuning strategies ahead of the Olympic competition.
Team USA Leading Scorers: Anthony Davis (17 points, 14 rebounds), Devin Booker (16 points), Anthony Edwards (14 points), LeBron James (10 points), Joel Embiid (10 points), Bam Adebayo (10 points).
Australia Leading Scorers: Jock Landale (20 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists), Josh Giddey (17 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists), Dyson Daniels (12 points).