Breaking

Kevin Durant powers Team USA's rout of Czech Republic on record night
Jul 31, 2021 1 min, 7 secs

SAITAMA, Japan -- The best thing Team USA had going for it this summer was Kevin Durant committing to play at the Tokyo Olympics.

Durant finished with 23 points on 8-of-11 shooting, which of course was important for the cause, but his playmaking and defense were just as helpful, as he put up eight rebounds and six assists.

In the third quarter, he was masterful, scoring 10 points with four of his assists as it went from a tight game to a comfortable blowout?

He'd had a pedestrian start in Tokyo, scoring just 20 points total in the first two games and shooting just 40%.

With Doncic, who scored 48 points in his first Olympic game, off to an impressive start and Australia's Patty Mills putting up great performances, Durant had faded into the background in the tournament's first week.

It was a relevant basket, not just because it put the team in front but also because it pushed Durant (354 points) past Carmelo Anthony (336) for the all-time scoring lead.

It was also a slump-breaker evening for Jayson Tatum, who had his best game of the summer with 27 points and five 3-pointers.

Coach Gregg Popovich had positioned him to be an impact scorer off the bench, but he was shooting just 40% in the first two games.

Nick Kay helped the Australians finally break free in a close game and finished with 16 points.

RECENT NEWS

SUBSCRIBE

Get monthly updates and free resources.

CONNECT WITH US

© Copyright 2024 365NEWSX - All RIGHTS RESERVED