Team USA vs Spain August 16

[NaySmith]

USA 119 Spain 82

Solid performance, especially on D. Team USA has taken away the devastating (ca 2004, that is) pick-and-rolls of the European teams.

Lebron was on a mission, and has been throughout the tournament. He did everything, hell, even Charley Rosen says so. He hit his free throws, and even a couple of threes. One new thing: LBJ in the high post (not low post, but high post) where he was very effective, dissecting the defense from there, and rolling to the hoop on his own on occasion.

Special mention to Wade too, who has been playing as "angrily" as Lebron. Funny that every time Kobe has the ball, one of the announcers has to mention that he is "the best player in the world," yet Bryant has so far not shown much evidence.

First time to see Ricky Rubio. They call him Pistol Pete, and there are some physical similarities. But the kid has the potential to be better than that. I can see him as a taller, potentially better version of Steve Nash. His slight build means he still gets pushed around, so some strengthening is needed. But, you know, he's only 17.

 

[Dungong]

If Wade plays like hes playing now during the regular season, the Heat are going to be a damn good team this year. Probably the best player of the team so far, hes shooting a rediculous percentage too (though thats what happens when 90% of your shots come within 2 feet of the rim).

Lebron so far is showing a dominant all-around game, leading the team or close to it most every category. He's playing 4 positions out there, acting as a point-small forward, then playing the 4 for a few minutes a game and has even been the center a few times. He could play off-guard too, but when you got Kobe and Wade on the team, theres just no need. What I've been most impressed with is his defense, hes just out jumping most of the guys out there and getting a ton of blocks, but hes also playing quality transition and man to man D.

Wow, I didnt realize Spain had so many NBA players: Gasol 1, Gasol 2, Rudy Fernandez, Juan Carlos Navarro, Calderon, Garbajosa, Rubio will be soon enough. They were good at times, but they could never grab a lead