USA routs Germany

Source: Hot Stove New York.

The “Redeem Team” continued their dominating play by crushing Germany 105-57 today. After beating Angola by 29 in their opener, Germany has lost four straight games. Team USA is 5-0 and has won their games by average of 32.2 points. They already clinched the top seed in Group B and only need three more victories in claim the coveted gold medal. It was important for the U.S. to build on their success against Spain and continue to increase chemistry as a team going into the single elimination medal round.

The U.S. started their scoring binge three seconds into the game with a Carmelo Anthony layup. That kicked off eight straight points to start the quarter. Germany managed only 29 first half points. The U.S scored 31 points in the first quarter. Germany missed nine of its first 10 shots as the Americans opened the game up with an 18-3 lead. The U.S. was scoring with ease again off fast break dunks and converting points off turnovers.

Germany struggled in the second half only scoring 28 points. The Americans scored 30 points in the third quarter alone and held a commanding 41-point lead with two minutes left in the quarter. Their outside shooting improved once again knocking down 42% (11-24) from beyond the arc.. They also shot 54% from the field and recorded 14 steals. Their aggressive defense caused Germany to shoot 30% for the game and 23% from downtown. They committed 18 turnovers and only went to the foul line nine times. NBA players Dirk Nowitzki and Chris Kaman combined for 20 points on 7-19 shooting.

Dwight Howard led Dream Team 4.0 with 22 points (9-10 from the field) and 10 rebounds, LeBron James scored 18 with 16 of those points coming in the first half (4-5 from downtown), Kobe Bryant, Dwayne Wade and Chris Paul each chipped in 10 points.

Two weeks ago, the Americans received their toughest test only beating Australia by eleven in an exhibition game in Shanghai. Australia was missing starter center, Andrew Bogut that game who since has recovered from his ankle injury. The U.S plays Australia in a quarterfinal matchup on Wednesday.