It’s on to the next round for Team USA, where they will face another new challenge.
So far in the six FIBA games that the US has played in, they haven’t faced a team with the size Russia possesses. The Russians are a physical team and have at least two players listed at 6’ 11” and another coming in at 7’ 1”. The average height of the Russian team is 6’ 8”, something the Americans have yet to go up against as a collective group.
The size and physical play that the Russians have gave New Zealand problems in their first-round match up. New Zealand’s two best players were in foul trouble all game, as they both had four personal fouls just after halftime.
Size is not exactly something this USA team has. While this presents obvious problems for Coach K., he can also use it to his advantage. This team really excels in the transition game, so if they are able to force turnovers, they will definitely be looking to run.
If they are unable to score in the paint, they should have no problem settling for outside jumpers, as they hit 18 three-pointers in their first round game against Angola, a game in wh ...
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Article written by Chad Smith
Team USA vs. Russia: Previewing Thursday’s ‘Elite Eight’ FIBA Match Up
September 7th, 2010 by Chad Smith Leave a reply »
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