With Team USA trailing by as many as 16 points against Germany, it looked like Steve Kerr’s squad was facing defeat for the first time during their round of showcase games before the FIBA World Cup.
However, Anthony Edwards came to the rescue. On his way to a 34-point performance, Edwards took over in the final frame as he carried Team USA to a thrilling comeback victory with an 18-0 run in the fourth quarter.
During Team USA’s 99-91 win over Germany, the Minnesota Timberwolves guard led the way with a fiery 34-point effort on 11-of-21 shooting from the floor with four made 3-pointers to go along with six boards, two assists and two blocks in 34 minutes.
After Team USA’s final showcase game, Kerr had high praise for the 22-year-old guard. Kerr said Edwards is “unquestionably the guy” for Team USA. Kerr called Edwards a “dynamic young player” that’s taking a leap.
He’s unquestionably the guy, You can see he knows it. But now the team knows it, and I think the fans see it. … He genuinely believes he’s the best player in the gym every single night. And he’s such a dynamic young player. I think he’s taking a leap.
Via @ByTimReynolds on Twitter:
Steve Kerr on Anthony Edwards’ role on this USA World Cup team: “He’s, unquestionably, the guy.”
— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) August 20, 2023
Prior to torching Germany for 34 points, Edwards dropped 21 against Greece on Friday. Edwards tallied double-figure scoring numbers against Slovenia and Puerto Rico in Team USA’s tune-up games.
The Timberwolves All-Star will lead Team USA in Group C of the FIBA World Cup in Manila starting on Saturday. Team USA will open the FIBA World Cup against New Zealand.
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