This is the kind of game that leaves me unwilling to comfortably predict a US gold medal in basketball.
Without their best player, Andrew Bogut, the Australians used their effort and defense to force "The Redeem Team" into poor shooting. Bogut sat out merely to rest up for the Olympics. Team USA shot 3-for-18 from three-point range, and 20-for-33 at the foul line. That's a Shaq-esque 61% for you math majors.
Australia wasn't the least bit intimidated by a team full of NBA All-Stars. I doubt very few will be in Beijing. Patrick Mills and Chris Anstey got into a first half tussle after getting tangled with Dwyane Wade away from the ball.
It was D-Wade, again, leading the Americans with 22 points. I can't repeat it enough, he's playing the best of anyone this summer. Pat Riley may have to consider coaching again after he sees Wade this winter.
So just an 87-76 victory for Team USA with plenty of close moments throughout the second half. I'm not the least bit comfortable heading into Sunday's clash with Yao Ming. Are you?
D-Wade has played fabulous...His "Vertical Leap" is off the charts right now! The man is hungry to prove that 2006 was no fluke. Mamba, King-James, and Flash on the same team!?!? This is a special time for USA Basketball. I can't wait until this weekend!
Where is the dude that wanted a Paul and Williams backcourt? I guess he's building a brick house with what they tossed up! Obviously the USA is favoured to win but it's nice to not see a cake walk even in these exhibition games