Team USA kicked off its Olympic schedule losing to France during group play. The Men’s USA Basketball Team hadn’t lost in the Olympics since 2004 when Argentina defeated the Allen Iverson-led USA squad.
In the 83-76 loss on Sunday, Gregg Popovich’s seemingly had control at several points in the contest. The club was up late in the third quarter, though France roared back. closing the game on a 16-2 run.
France’s Best: Evan Fournier was particularly impressive, scoring 28 points while shooting 11-of-22 from the field. The wing led the team in minutes.
Key Detail to Note: Kevin Durant’s foul trouble limited him early in the second half (international rules allow for just five fouls). Durant came back in late in the game, though he was ice cold at that point, missing six shots in the fourth quarter.
One positive for Team USA: Jrue Holiday’s play – The NBA champion led Team USA in minutes against despite arriving in Tokyo on Saturday and not getting a chance to practice with the team.
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