Team USA seemed to be closer to Olympic gold form against Argentina, defeating them by a score of 108-80. The deeply needed win comes just 12 days before the team is set to kick off its slate of games in Tokyo.
“Against Australia, we competed well, rebounded, played defense, ran the floor and had good pace for a half and then it dissipated for a half. Tonight, we maintained that pretty much throughout the game. Hopefully, that’s a sign we’re getting better,” said head coach Gregg Popovich.
Kevin Durant shook off his rust from the first two exhibition matches, shooting 6 of 9 and recording 17 points. Zach LaVine also turned in a strong performance, alongside a 15-point game from Jayson Tatum.
Popovich kept his starting unit on the floor much more of the game than the previous exhibitions, believing their losses were due in part to a lack of proper conditioning.
While the win was impressive, Argentina is the weakest team in terms of rankings that the U.S. has faced.
Popovich kept the work still needed before the Olympics in perspective.
“We’re going to continue to work hard like we need to. … Without the condition, we can’t get this done.”
