Team USA officially began the 2023 FIBA World Cup on Saturday with a group play contest versus New Zealand. But early on, it looked like perhaps it was in over its head.
The Americans came out sloppy, committing turnovers in bunches and looking rusty or simply off-kilter offensively. They fell behind 14-4 in the early minutes and had to make some type of change.
Enter Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Once he came into the game off the bench, things turned around, and from that point on, it was all Team USA. Reaves was arguably its best player, as he finished with 12 points on 4-of-6 shooting and six assists. He also showed some defensive prowess with three steals while managing to stay out of foul trouble.
Team USA won easily, 99-72, and Reaves offered some highlights throughout the contest.
Does Austin Reaves have the best layup package in the NBA?? 🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/PKhidBCVfj
— JAKE (@KingJakeVII) August 26, 2023
Austin Reaves vs New Zealand highlights. 12 points and 6 assists
— Teg🚨 (@IQfor3) August 26, 2023
Team USA will next play Greece on Monday, Aug. 28.