All Knicks

Brunson Struggles, But USA Survives in Final World Cup Exhibition vs. Germany (Highlights)

New York Knicks stars Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart struggled in their final tune-up before the FIBA Basketball World Cup against Germany.

Geoff Magliocchetti

In this story:

Next time, it's for real. 

The United States' men's national basketball team capped off its five-game showcase slate on Sunday against Germany at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. It was far from easy but the Americans prevailed in the last of five exhibitions in preparation for this week's FIBA Basketball World Cup by a 99-91 final.

New York Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson once again remained in the starting five. Sunday was his quietest effort in an otherwise strong debut with the American senior group, as he hit only 2-of-6 from the field, both from deep, and played only 15 minutes, tied for the lowest among starters with Brandon Ingram (New Orleans). Brunson struggled defensively against Germany captain Dennis Schröder (Toronto), who put up a 16-point, 10-assist double-double. 

Nonetheless, Brunson appears poised to play a big part in the Americans' upcoming effort in Asia. In the perfect five-game exhibition slate, Brunson frequently appeared at or near the top of the American statistical ledgers, notably notching a perfect 9-of-9 effort from the field en route to 21 points in a win over defending World Cup champion Spain last weekend. 

Elsewhere in New York affairs, Josh Hart came in to play 10 minutes, hauling in three rebounds during his time on the floor.

Sunday's star was undoubtedly Anthony Edwards (Minnesota), whose dominant effort allowed the Americans to erase a deficit that reached as high as 16 in the third quarter. Over the final 13-plus minutes of action, Team USA outscored Germany 44-20 thanks in part to Edwards scoring 17 points, half of his total of 34, in the final period alone. The Americans held a jaw-dropping plus-37 advantage on the scoreboard when Edwards was on the floor.

Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana) and Austin Reaves (LA Lakers) also had standout performances for the Americans as each had 16 points off the bench.

Germany is looking to recover from a disappointing posting in the last World Cup in 2019, having failed to get out of group play. Three different Germans had at least 10 rebounds en route to a 55-42 advantage on the boards. Daniel Theis (Indiana) led the way with 13 while Franz Wagner (Orlando) and Johannes Voigtmann had 10 each. Wagner also led the team in scoring with 17 while his brother Mortiz came off the bench to put in 14 more.

Team USA will now compete in Group C when World Cup pool play begins their week. A trio in Manila tips off on Saturday morning against New Zealand (8:40 a.m. ET, ESPN2). 

Geoff Magliocchetti is on Twitter @GeoffJMags

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Knicks? Click Here.

Follow AllKnicks.com on Twitter.

Published
Geoff Magliocchetti
GEOFF MAGLIOCCHETTI

Editor-In-Chief at All Knicks

Home/News