Should Steve Kerr continue to play Paolo Banchero at the center position? As many NBA fans might be aware, we are in the midst of the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Team USA is widely considered the prohibited favorite to win it all due to the star-studded roster they have.
Banchero from the Orlando Magic, is one of many young stars looking to help Team USA win the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Due to the incredible amount of talent that Steve Kerr and the other Team USA coaches have at their disposal, there are quite a few lineups that they have thrown out there in the games played so far.
With that being said, Magic fans should certainly wonder how Paolo Banchero has played so far and his impact on the team. Let us take a closer look and find out more.
How has Paolo Banchero been playing so far in the 2023 FIBA World Cup?
Since there are a lot of talented players on the Team USA roster, it has been quite difficult for Banchero to get a lot of playing minutes. Additionally, Banchero is listed at an impressive 6’10. Therefore, it is fully possible to use the Orlando Magic star at the Center position.
Team USA has played 4 official games so far in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Although they have remained undefeated, there have been various lineups where the coaches have tried to put the best starting 5 on the floor. During his first game against New Zealand, Banchero scored a team-high 21 points and led his team to victory in around 18 minutes of action.
However, in the three games since then, his minutes have dwindled down and so has his impact. Paolo scored only 8 points against Greece, Montenegro and Jordan. One could argue that the increased minutes for other stars such as Jaren Jackson Jr., Walker Kessler, and Bobby Portis have reduced his usage.
here are some of the coolest moments for paolo banchero playing the 5 in this world cup so far pic.twitter.com/TBrGVtd8Pj
— damon (@iamdamonallred) August 31, 2023
In any case, Steve Kerr should consider putting Banchro in the center position more often. He has enough size and defensive awareness to wrestle with other centers. Moreover, his athleticism and speed are almost otherworldly for a player of his size.
Even if Kerr does not give Banchero many minutes at the center position, the Orlando Magic might want to consider trying it out for the upcoming season. After all, Paolo is still only 20 years old and has a long way to go before developing his completed playstyle.
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