Team USA didn’t start well in Sunday’s exhibition game against Spain, their third warm-up game before the 2023 FIBA World Cup. The first quarter ended with Spain outscoring the Americans 28-26, but Team USA fought back in a roller-coaster game in Malaga. Both teams took turns winning quarters throughout the contest, but Jalen Brunson’s impressive shooting led to a 98-88 victory for the visitors. Despite facing some challenges, Team USA is heading in the right direction before the main event.
In his previous game, Brunson almost achieved a double-double and led his team with 22 points, shooting a perfect 9-for-9. He also had five assists and made both of his three-point attempts. So far, Team USA has struggled with outside shooting, but in this game, their resurgent shooting from beyond the arc helped them to a 55-45 halftime lead. By the end of the third quarter, however, Spain managed to eliminate that advantage.
Spain made a comeback by capitalizing on turnovers and creating second-chance opportunities on the offensive glass, leading to some uncontested shots in the third quarter. Nonetheless, Team USA’s depth proved to be the difference. Anthony Edwards made some impressive plays on both ends of the court, while Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed 14 points and three blocked shots. Mikal Bridges also added 12 points to rally his team to victory.
Next, USA basketball will face Greece on Friday, Aug. 18 for their fourth exhibition game. The World Cup begins on Aug. 25, with games taking place in Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
