I predicted a 20-point win by USA. I was wrong.
Kobe started strong with the first 8 points for USA.
USA ahead by 19 at the half, ahead by 21 end of third quarter, but only won by 15 points.
TWENTY turnovers did not help.
It seems they took control of the game early, and never let Argentina catch up.
Here’s the question, do you help a fallen opponent up?/ In NBA playoffs you do not. But I would say, here, with the friendly atmosphere of the games, you do help an opponent to his feet at the end of a play. And it’s friendly, because no one is expected to be close to USA, so there is no animosity.
Here’s another, when will the USA loose the #1 ranking in the world? USA is still, THE team to beat. For the Olympics USA has won 114 and lost only 5. For world championship, not as good, but still a very respectable 105 wins, 27 loses.
NBA professionals did not play until 1992. Remember, other professional basketball league players were competing for their countries.
One of the good things about USA bringing their best athletes, is that is shows other countries just how hard they have to work. Good competition makes people better.
I suspect that soon, there will be a few powerhouses that will equal USA on a regular basis. It will take a culture of basketball (which is why USA sucks at soccer) and the luck of genetically gifted athletes. I predict, China, Mexico, and Brazil have the best shots of being able to become powerhouses within the next 10 years.