Team USA struggle in first quarter, end up easily beating New Zealand / News - Basketnews.com

Team USA scored just 19 points in the first quarter - their second-lowest mark in FIBA openers - but easily beat New Zealand behind Paolo Banchero's dominant game.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Team USA struggled to score in the first quarter but ended up easily beating New Zealand in their 2023 FIBA World Cup debut by a result of 99-72 (19-18, 26-18, 31-22, 23-14).

Player of the Game EFF 25 Paolo Banchero Points 21 Accuracy 8-10 Rebounds 4 Assists 1

Only Austin Reaves' late three-pointer saved the favorites from the lowest-scoring quarter in Team USA World Cup opening games. The remaining three quarters were much easier, and the Americans enjoyed a comfortable win.

It was an international senior-level debut for all twelve players in Team USA.

After struggling during the preparatory cycle, Paolo Banchero shined in the game, leading both teams in scoring with 19 points on an efficient 7-for-8 shooting and 3 blocks in 17 minutes of playing time.

Anthony Edwards, who scored 34 points in the last friendly game before the World Cup, was second in scoring with 14 points (5/10 FG, 0/3 3PT, 7 REB, 5 TO) in 22 minutes on the court.

The 19 points scored against New Zealand in the first quarter represent Team USA's 2nd-lowest scoring period in the opening games in FIBA tournaments. In the 2019 World Cup, Team USA managed 17 points against the Czech Republic.

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