Watching the USA vs Puerto Rico FIBA basketball game felt like witnessing a masterclass in international basketball evolution. As someone who’s followed Team USA for over a decade, I’ve grown accustomed to their explosive, high-flying style—but this matchup offered something different. It wasn’t just about the final score, which ended at 98-75 in favor of the United States. It was about the subtle shifts in strategy, the emergence of new leaders, and the undeniable grit Puerto Rico displayed despite the odds. Honestly, I walked away thinking this game might just be a defining moment for both squads as they build toward future global competitions.
One of the most striking takeaways for me was how Team USA’s defensive intensity set the tone early. They forced 18 turnovers, many of which came in the first half, and converted those into 24 fast-break points. That kind of pressure isn’t just skill—it’s mindset. I’ve always believed defense wins championships at this level, and seeing players like Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges lock down the perimeter reminded me of the 2014 squad that dominated with similar tenacity. Puerto Rico, to their credit, didn’t back down. They moved the ball well, finishing with 20 assists, but the U.S. defense disrupted their rhythm just enough to keep them from ever truly threatening a comeback.
Offensively, the Americans showcased a more balanced approach than we’ve seen in recent outings. Anthony Edwards was spectacular, dropping 22 points with a mix of aggressive drives and confident jumpers. But what stood out to me was the unselfish ball movement—28 assists as a team, compared to Puerto Rico’s 20. It felt like everyone was buying into a system rather than relying on isolation plays. I’ve criticized past teams for leaning too heavily on individual talent, so this was a refreshing change. On the flip side, Puerto Rico’s Tremont Waters put on a show with his crafty playmaking, finishing with 17 points and 9 assists. His performance, though in a losing effort, highlighted the depth of talent emerging from smaller basketball nations.
Another key aspect was rebounding, where the U.S. dominated 45-32. Jaren Jackson Jr. pulled down 12 boards, and his presence in the paint was a game-changer. I’ve always thought that controlling the glass is half the battle in FIBA play, where physicality can vary so much from game to game. Puerto Rico fought hard—Ismael Romero had 8 rebounds of his own—but they simply couldn’t match the Americans’ size and athleticism. This isn’t just about height; it’s about positioning and hustle, and Team USA executed beautifully in that department.
Then there’s the emotional side of the game. Puerto Rico played with heart, feeding off the energy of their fans and never letting the score dictate their effort. I loved seeing that passion—it’s what makes international basketball so special. But it’s an experience he has to go through if he wants to become a world champion in the near future. For young players like Puerto Rico’s George Conditt IV, who logged meaningful minutes against elite competition, this game was a crash course in what it takes to compete at the highest level. Losses like this sting, but they’re invaluable for growth. I’ve seen it time and again: teams that embrace these tough lessons often come back stronger in the next tournament.
From a strategic standpoint, Team USA’s coaching staff deserves credit for their adjustments. They mixed up defensive schemes, occasionally throwing in a full-court press that caught Puerto Rico off guard. Steve Kerr’s decision to go small at times created mismatches that stretched the floor and opened up driving lanes. It’s these kinds of in-game tweaks that separate good teams from great ones. Puerto Rico, meanwhile, showed flashes of brilliance in their half-court sets, but they struggled to maintain consistency against the U.S. depth. When your bench contributes 38 points, as the Americans’ did, it’s tough for any opponent to keep pace.
Looking ahead, this game reinforced my belief that Team USA is on the right track, but they’re not invincible. They shot 48% from the field and 36% from three—solid numbers, but not otherworldly. There were stretches where the offense stagnated, and they committed 12 turnovers of their own. Puerto Rico exposed a few vulnerabilities, particularly in transition defense, that more experienced teams might exploit. Still, the progress is evident. For Puerto Rico, this was a statement game. They proved they belong on the same court, and with more discipline and experience, they could be a dark horse in upcoming competitions.
In the end, games like this are why I love FIBA basketball. It’s not just about winning or losing; it’s about the stories that unfold on the court. Team USA took a step forward, but Puerto Rico gained something just as important—a blueprint for growth. As both teams continue their journeys, this epic showdown will be remembered not just for the final score, but for the lessons learned and the promise shown by players on both sides. I, for one, can’t wait to see how these narratives develop in the months to come.
