(Kevin Durant, Tournament MVP, Team USA)
FIBA 2010 CHAMPIONS: Team USA
Ranked 2nd in the world in 2009.
Ranked 1st in the world in 2010.
Today, in Turkey, would be the last games played of the FIBA 2010 Championships. After a close 1st half against Team Turkey, Team USA took the lead and never looked back, earning the Gold Medal, going undefeated in the tournament. Lithuania defeated Serbia earning the Bronze Medal in a game, which could have gone either way, decided by 11 points.
The fans attendance, passion and support for their teams is something we over here in the west could learn from. Even when Turkey was down, not making shots or committing fouls, there were no "booos" to be heard from their fans. A football (soccer) style chant rang through the arena during the final seconds, with the outcome long since decided, telling their team that they appreciated their efforts and accomplishments against the best in the world.
As a basketball addict, I fully enjoyed the FIBA tournament, however, I do look forward to a little time off before the NBA season begins. Watching the Gold Medal US team play also showed me that players, when given playing time and a chance to contribute, are a lot better than we might think. I am anxious to follow these Gold Medalists on their respective teams throughout the season with this new found appreciation for their skills.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL COUNTRIES WHO PARTICIPATED!
Medals
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1st Place (Gold): USA
2nd Place (Silver): Turkey
3rd Place (Bronze): Lithuania
Scores
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USA 81 Turkey 64
Lithuania 99 Serbia 88
Argentina 86 Spain 81
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