In a turn of events, Team USA faced a bitter defeat in the FIBA World Cup semifinals, succumbing to Germany’s relentless game. As the dust settles on this unexpected outcome, echoes of Kobe Bryant’s words resurface within the NBA community.
Back in 2019, Bryant was the global ambassador for the FIBA World Cup. With a key role in Team USA’s Olympic gold medals, his insights into the game carry weight. Reflecting on the challenges faced by USA Basketball, Kobe once stated, “We have to do a better job developing our players.”
Kobe said it years ago that we are struggling more in international competition. I still think we are the best and would win Gold with our best but the FIBA game exposes a lot of our flaws.
It’s a different game and we have no excuses.
— Dime Dropper (@DimeDropperPod) September 8, 2023
In his insightful interview, he spoke about the time when he was growing up in Italy. He emphasized how he was fortunate to experience European coaching excellence. Kobe revealed how luminaries like Red Auerbach and Tex Winter conducted coaching clinics that focused on player development.
Furthermore, exposure to high-quality coaching has contributed to the success of European players in understanding and excelling in the game. Bryant highlighted the need for the USA to enhance player development to compete effectively in international competitions.
Team USA was eliminated from the FIBA World Cup after a loss against Germany
The FIBA World Cup semi-final between Team USA and Germany garnered huge attention, with Team USA heavily favored at -10.5, and an Over/Under set at 178.5. However, the final score of 113-111 in favor of Germany thrilled the underdog supporters. The game was marked by unpredictability, impacting the betting markets.
Team USA trailed Germany for 30 out of 40 minutes, a rare sight for a team with NBA players. The usually strong American defense faltered, allowing Germany to shoot an astonishing 58%.
The game’s turning point came with just 1:15 left when Andreas Obst made a game-sealing three-pointer, shocking in-game and futures betting. Germany’s 7-0 record led to their first-ever FIBA World Cup final against Serbia.
For the second consecutive FIBA World Cup, Team USA’s quest for gold was dashed. This outcome is undoubtedly disappointing for USA basketball fans. What was once considered a guaranteed gold for Team USA has been shattered once again.
The defeat at the hands of Germany marks yet another disheartening campaign for Team USA in the FIBA World Cup. Despite assembling a roster filled with NBA stars such as Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, and Jalen Brunson, the team fell short of reaching the championship game.
Black Mamba’s words resonate even more strongly now, as the difficulties and challenges the team faces in international competitions have become evident.