In a stunning turn of events, Lithuania emerged victorious over Team USA in the FIBA World Cup, highlighting significant flaws in the American roster and raising concerns about their focus and execution. While losses are not uncommon in major international competitions, this defeat exposed deep-rooted issues within the Team USA lineup. Lithuania, known for its illustrious basketball history, capitalized on their advantages, outplaying and outmaneuvering their American opponents to secure a decisive 110-104 victory. Despite a late surge from Team USA in the third quarter, they were never in a position to overtake the Lithuanians, who showcased a balanced performance. Nine different Lithuanian players contributed to their success by making three-pointers, grabbing rebounds, dishing out assists, and scoring in double figures. This defeat serves as a wake-up call for Team USA, who now must reassess their strategy and address their weaknesses if they hope to reclaim their dominance in international basketball.
While Anthony Edwards led the charge for Team USA with an impressive 35-point performance, falling just three points short of Kevin Durant’s Team USA scoring record, it was clear that individual brilliance alone could not compensate for the overall shortcomings of the team. Mikal Bridges also demonstrated commendable effort on both ends of the court, scoring 14 points and contributing on the defensive end, but his contributions were ultimately insufficient. The Lithuanian team, on the other hand, relied on a collective effort rather than individual brilliance. Mindaugas Kuzminskas, Vaidas Kariniauskas, and Jonas Valanciunas were the leading scorers for Lithuania, but credit for the victory must be given to the entire roster. Each player fulfilled their role, exposing the weaknesses and mistakes of Team USA.
One of the glaring weaknesses of Team USA is their lack of size, a reality they acknowledge and attempt to address with strategic game plans. Historically, the best big men in basketball have primarily come from outside the United States, particularly Europe. This deficiency prompted the consideration of recruiting players like Joel Embiid, who became an American citizen last year, to fill this crucial position. However, the Lithuanian team showcased their dominance in size, starting three players who are 6-foot-9 or taller and bringing several other tall players off the bench, including current and former NBA players. The rebounding battle was especially lopsided, with Lithuania securing a 43-27 advantage over Team USA. This height disadvantage was exacerbated by Jaren Jackson Jr.’s foul trouble and inability to contain rebounds. Despite Coach Steve Kerr’s attempts to utilize other big men like Bobby Portis and Walker Kessler, Lithuania consistently outrebounded the Americans, denying them crucial possessions.
Team USA has often relied on their speed and depth to overcome their lack of size. However, the Lithuanian team proved to be equally deep and possessed an even greater advantage in size. Coach Steve Kerr’s commitment to switching on pick-and-rolls proved to be ineffective against Lithuania, as they exploited the mismatches created by this defensive strategy. Additionally, Lithuania relied on their bench with confidence, entering the game with seven different players averaging seven or more points. This balanced approach, combined with their exceptional rebounding and three-point shooting, gave Lithuania a significant edge. Making their first nine three-point attempts, the Lithuanians displayed cold efficiency in their offensive execution. The U.S. defense struggled to contain the open shooters, as they were caught in a bind between double-teaming Lithuania’s big men and contesting the three-point shots. Lithuania capitalized on this dilemma, effectively moving the ball and attacking the size advantage through post plays.
While this loss does not have immediate severe consequences for Team USA, as they had already secured a spot in the medal round and qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics, it significantly impacts their momentum and confidence. The team must address the flaws exposed by Lithuania if they aim to regain their status as frontrunners in the competition. Their upcoming quarterfinal match against Italy poses another challenge, but one in which their lack of size may not be as pronounced as against Lithuania. Nevertheless, this defeat serves as a reminder that Team USA cannot rely solely on their reputation, speed, and depth. They must develop strategies to counter superior size and find innovative ways to exploit opponent weaknesses if they wish to emerge as champions once again.
Team USA’s loss to Lithuania in the FIBA World Cup highlighted critical roster flaws, an inability to address their size disadvantage, and the importance of a cohesive team effort. Lithuania’s triumph was not accidental; it was the result of a superior game plan, exploiting their strengths and capitalizing on Team USA’s weaknesses. This defeat offers valuable lessons for Team USA as they strive to regain their dominance in international basketball and secure a gold medal in the future.
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