Another easy win for US
Just like in their opening game, Team USA hardly broke a sweat at the Abdi Ipekci Arena in Istanbul as they claimed their second win in Group B.
The Americans, who are composed mainly of young players from the National Basketball Association, led from start to finish in their 99-77 demolition of Slovenia. Team USA got off to a blazing start, erecting a 12-2 lead early in the game. The defending Olympic champions built a 23-11 advantage after the first 10 minutes of play.
Enjoying a double-digit lead, coach Mike Krzyzewski's wards relaxed a bit in the second period, allowing the Slovenians to inch closer. A three-pointer from Samo Udrih coupled with a dunk by Primoz Brezec allowed Slovenia to trim USA's lead to 27-21. However, the Americans responded with a 15-7 run to increase their lead to 42-28 at the break. Kevin Durant led the Americans with 15 points heading into the locker room.
Instead of relaxing, Team USA became an even better squad coming out of the break. The Americans unleashed a 14-4 run in the first five minutes of the second half, leaving the Europeans stunned. Team USA outscored their opponents, 25-18, to take a commanding 67-46 cushion heading into the final quarter.
With the game already in the bag, the Americans showboated throughout the final period as Krzyzewski experimented with his combinations. Although the Slovenians scored 31 points in the final quarter, it was not enough to overhaul the Americans' lead. In fact, the US team even outscored Slovenia in the fourth despite holding a huge lead.
Durant again showcased his all-around brilliance, finishing with 22 points, four rebounds, four assists and four steals. Backing him up was Rudy g*y, who drilled 16 points. Also making significant contributions were Russell Westbrook and Andre Iguodala, who scored 11 points apiece, and big man Kevin Love, who finished with 10 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. The Slovenians found no answer to Love’s dominance as the former UCLA stalwart had a field day in the shaded area. Former NBA player Bostjan Nachbar led the Slovenians with 13 points and four rebounds. Gasper Vidmar was the only other Slovenian to score in double digits, contributing 10 points.
The United States, who walloped Croatia, 106-78, on Saturday, will next play Brazil tomorrow. Slovenia, on the other hand, will face the Croatians. Slovenia suffered their first loss after an easy 80-56 win over Tunisia on opening day.
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