The FIBA World Cup 2023 has had its share of surprises, and the defeat of the United States team against Lithuania is undoubtedly the most notable. With the final score reading 110-104 in favor of the Lithuanians, many wondered how such a thing could have happened.
From the outset, we must recognize Lithuania’s phenomenal performance. Scoring their first nine three-pointers and finishing an impressive 14 of 25, they demonstrated unwavering mastery and determination. The team proved unstoppable, with nine different players scoring at least one three-pointer.
But to understand this defeat, we must first look at the composition of the American team. In recent years, the size of players has been a concern. The team is small, a weakness that opponents, including Lithuania, did not fail to exploit. However, this is not a weakness suffered, but a strategy assumed by coach Steve Kerr. Rather than trying to compete on size, Kerr has focused on speed and agility, relying on guards and wingers such as Tyrese Haliburton or Josh Hart, who can defend multiple positions.
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Lithuania's Eimantas Bendzius symbolized his team's ascendancy when he scored a decisive three-pointer in the last second, a moment that even American fans had to applaud.
The defeat reminded some of the match against Greece in 2006, although the circumstances were different. While Greece benefited from a few lucky shots, Lithuania won by methodically exploiting the weaknesses of the American team.
The question of size has always been a source of debate. In 2019, the American team opted for three big centers, but their performance was disappointing, resulting in a seventh place finish. This year, with Walker Kessler as the main center, the emphasis has been on defense rather than size.
Players like Anthony Davis or Joel Embiid could strengthen the team in the future, but their integration remains uncertain. The current approach favors robust defense and versatility.
Despite this defeat, all is not gloomy for the Americans. Players such as Anthony Edwards, who scored 35 points in this game, show that the talent is there. As assistant coach Erik Spoelstra points out: “We have what it takes.” A mentality that could well prove essential for the rest of the tournament.
Indeed, the American team must not let itself be defeated. She will face Italy in the quarterfinals, a team renowned for their rebounds and three-point skill.