Late surge from Team USA secures victory over Puerto Rico in friendly game

Team USA overcame a slow start before pounding on Puerto Rico, 117-74, during their friendly game on Monday nights (Tuesday, Manila time) at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Anthony Edwards and Cameron Johnson top-scored with 15 points apiece for the Americans, which are aiming to bounce back from a dismal showing in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.

Jalen Brunson finished with a double-double of 11 points and 12 rebounds, while Tyrese Haliburton dished out 12 assists to go with seven points for Team USA.

The Americans struggled with their shots early as they held a 27-21 lead after the first quarter and were just on top at 50-43 at the half against the youthful Puerto Rico.

The Steve Kerr-mentored Team USA blew the game wide open in the second half as they outscored Puerto Rico, 67-31, across the final 20 minutes, including a 20-0 run that spanned the third and fourth quarters.

Tremont Waters, who previously played for the Boston Celtics in the NBA, finished with 17 points and five steals to lead Puerto Rico.

Team USA is bracketed with Greece, New Zealand, and Jordan in Group C and will play their group stage games at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Puerto Rico, on the other hand, is in Group B along with Serbia, China, and South Sudan and will play at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

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