After an ultimately successful Olympic campaign that culminated in yesterday's gold medal winning 30-point smashing of Serbia, Team USA Director Jerry Colangelo is already looking for continuity in the next Olympiad.
A team that didn't struggle to share the ball but instead faced problems getting open shots clearly was at its most cohesive state in Sunday's second quarter, where they outscored Serbia 33-14 to break the game open. The Americans led by 23 at the half.
This rendition of Team USA lacked the synergy of past teams, where the likes of Chris Paul, LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, and Dwyane Wade knew each other so well they were able to coach each other on the floor:
“We can't go back again with 10 new players. That's not going to happen,” Colangelo said, according to ESPN's Marc Stein. “For me, I'm glad we got past this.”
A 12-man roster loaded with talent had very close calls against Serbia and France, escaping with a three-point win in each.
Colangelo clearly yearns for that familiarity between players and foresees the future invitations declined from the senior members of the team.
As Gregg Popovich assumes charge at the helm of the national team, the first task at hand is the 2018 FIBA World Championship.
Pop will have to adjust to the way these international teams play the U.S. — very physical defense and limiting them to a half-court offense.
Getting players that can play within his system effectively and are familiar with each other will play a key factor in Team USA's future international performance.
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