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South Sudan coach Royal Ivey anticipated a different game on Wednesday when Team USA adjusted its starting lineup for the rematch, opting for a faster, more athletic group to counteract the Sudanese speed.
This new lineup made an immediate impact, scoring the game’s first three buckets and setting the tone. Team USA approached the game with greater intensity compared to the friendly on June 20 in London, where LeBron James had to deliver late-game heroics to secure the win.
This time, there was no room for suspense. Team USA maintained the lead for the final 36 minutes and six seconds, with five players scoring in double figures for a 103-86 victory at Pierre Mauroy Stadium. With a 2-0 record, USA leads Group C and has secured a spot in the knockout round in Paris. The game also showcased the depth of the team under Steve Kerr’s varied lineups.
This time, Jayson Tatum was in the starting lineup after sitting out Sunday’s game against Serbia. Joel Embiid, a former NBA MVP, was not in the lineup. Tyrese Haliburton, who had been largely absent from the rotation during the exhibition games, made an unexpected early appearance and hit two three-pointers.