Team USA recently cut Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo in the first series of knockouts as the team rounds out its final roster for the upcoming FIBA World Cup later this month. Per Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun Sentinel, Team USA had a preference for long range shooting, something that is still a work-in-progress for the Heat big man.

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While Adebayo had shown consistent mid-range ability during his time in Las Vegas, the latest shuffle by USA Basketball showed a preference for the type of deeper shooting range that has become so essential in international play. Adebayo has stressed such range as an ongoing goal.

Adebayo has not quite incorporated three-point shooting in his game, though he has been working on it this summer. The Kentucky standout made just three triples out of 15 attempts from beyond the arc last season. Majority of his attempts, nearly 81 percent, came from within 10 feet.

Team USA's also released new Chicago Bulls forward Thaddeus Young, along with Adebayo, following their scrimmage showcase on Friday night. Adebayo did very little in his 10 minutes on the floor. He scored just three points and added two rebounds and two steals to his name.

As deflating as his release may be from Team USA, this should only fuel the 22-year old center. Adebayo will enter next season as the odds on favorite to start for the Miami Heat at the five spot.

Adebayo has been living near the rim for the majority of his career. Expanding his range further out should become his priority for the rest of the off-season.