The USA basketball stars also lost the bronze medal at the World Cup in Asia two days after their semi-final defeat against Germany. In the match for third place, head coach Steve Kerr’s team lost 118:127 (111:111, 56:58) after extra time against Canada and thus ended the tournament in fourth place.
The Canadians, on the other hand, won their first medal at a World Cup in Manila, led by star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (31 points, twelve assists) and top defender Dillon Brooks (39 points).
Even a sensational action by Mikal Bridges, who intentionally missed a free throw at the end of regular time and converted a three-pointer after his own rebound to equalize, was not enough for the US team. The USA no longer seemed to take the bronze game seriously in the Mall of Asia Arena in front of 10,666 spectators. Paolo Banchero, Brandon Ingram and Jaren Jackson Jr. did not play at all for health reasons.
USA again having problems in defense
Behind Anthony Edwards (24 points) and Austin Reaves (23), too few professionals from the US team, which is full of NBA professionals, were convincing. In addition, the defense was once again desolate. Two days earlier, the USA had lost the semifinals against Germany by 111:113 and thus missed out on their sixth World Cup title.
However, the Americans are qualified for the 2024 Olympics with their World Cup result. Another team is expected in Paris. There is speculation about the return of players like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Jayson Tatum. The slightly older superstars Stephen Curry (35 years old) and LeBron James (38) could also celebrate a comeback for the Olympic Games.
