- Team USA was off to a brilliant start in the 2023 FIBA World Cup
- Paolo Banchero led from the front with 21 points in USA’s 99-27 win over New Zealand
- Banchero had praises lavished on him by fans after the win
NBA fans were ecstatic after Team USA began their 2023 FIBA World Cup on a positive note by notching up a 99-72 win against New Zealand at the Manila MOA Arena.
Led by Paolo Banchero’s 21 points and 4 rebounds, USA dominated with ample contributions by Anthony Edwards (14 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists), and Austin Reaves (12 points, 2 rebounds, and 6 assists) despite a sluggish start.
The win saw the team take the top of the table in Group C with Greece in second place. And now, for the reactions:
Fans were happy that the rising stars began on a strong note.
Slow start turns into an easy game for offensive possessions. This U.S. team is PACKED with upcoming stars 🇺🇸 https://t.co/6NIp3926fB
— Brandon (@BranH2001) August 26, 2023
Banchero was the man in focus.
Who knew Banchero would be the big man that would set the tone for Team USA wew https://t.co/u3ARUr2H9y
— Gio Gloria 🔥 (@theGLOooo) August 26, 2023
He was rightfully called the next face of USA basketball.
FACE OF USA BASKETBALL 😂 https://t.co/ACUsi0tnZ9
— Not Another Magic Pod (@Notanothermagic) August 26, 2023
Some chose to laud the bench that poured in 31 points.
Nice win USA
31 bench points 😮
Tyrese Haliburton had us going in the 2nd half and Banchero finished it off with some nice offensive plays and some key blocks https://t.co/7wHjgUcNvg
— Nahh Im A Nets Fan 👑 🏀 🏈 🇺🇸 (@alldayworkin44) August 26, 2023
The squad had fans optimistic.
Squad looked good! Top to bottom everyone was able to contribute. Fun to watch the young bucks on the international stage put in work! On to the next one! 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 #WinForUSA https://t.co/Zl2eHiueYm pic.twitter.com/ep4CWu9ygj
— Jeremiah Johnson (@Charlie6Romeo) August 26, 2023
Some fans were rooting for Banchero to be a starter throughout the course of the tournament.
Paolo Banchero has to be a starter #FIBAWC https://t.co/oujH3cyMXT
— Adrián García (@adriii_03_) August 26, 2023
A section of fans believed the Orlando Magic would be in safe hands.
I have absolutely no doubt that Paolo is going to lead the Magic to the playoffs next year! #MagicTogether #PureMagic https://t.co/Ei6tyy2Ggh
— Honest Los (@Marti_McFlyJr) August 26, 2023
After what was a stuttering first quarter where the USA trailed by as many as 10 points, the team regrouped to surpass NZ soon after. Once they did get going, they didn’t let the lead dip and the end result was a comprehensive win.
Banchero’s performance will put him in the spotlight after the Magic star propelled USA to their win. He was instrumental for Orlando last season averaging 20.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists this past season.
The Magic star matched records initially set by LeBron James and Grant Hill in his rookie season. And to win Rookie Of The Year almost unanimously is another testament to his immense potential. Now, the one thing he will hope for is to be consistent.
Team USA will be back in action on Monday, Aug. 28, when it faces Greece at 8:40 a.m. ET.
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