Lakers News: Austin Reaves, Team USA Blow Out New Zealand In First Official FIBA Tournament Win

Getting the ball rolling!

There's been a lot of attention on Team USA as of late as they are just getting their feet warm in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. 

They've already had a number of viral practice clips such as Anthony Edwards challenging Jaren Jackson Jr. to attempt to block his dunk along with Los Angeles Lakers' own Austin Reaves using his signature behind the back combo on his own teammates.

And even though some basketball fans were not sold on this roster at first, they've taken care of business early on. Even though the exhibition games did not count, Team USA got comfortable with one another and won all five and they played an early match against New Zealand on Saturday 99-72 as their first official World Cup game and took home the victory as well.

1 down ✅

🇺🇸 #WinForUSA | #FIBAWC pic.twitter.com/dHnKohI2MW

— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) August 26, 2023

The US found themselves down 14-4 early but were able to prevail behind 21 points and four boards from Paolo Banchero, 14 points and seven boards from Anthony Edwards and 12 points and six assists from Austin Reaves.

This system that head coach Steve Kerr has in place right now continues to work as once Team USA found their legs, they stretched their lead and never looked behind. Reaves has been able to remain a threat off of the bench and when he is not creating his own shot or getting open looks from beyond the arc, you can count on him to find open teammates.

Banchero took advantage of a number of mismatches in this win and when he was playing center, the US was able to run a very successful '5 out' offense. He also chipped in four blocks and stayed out of foul trouble by vertically contesting most shots.

Team USA will face off next against Greece on August 28 at 5:40 am PT so set your alarms since now!

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