By Nikos Varlas/ varlas@eurohoops.net
We are counting down to the tip off of the FIBA World Cup in Spain and based on the format of the tournament and the fact that after first phase all games are knock – out, everything can happen, even the biggest surprises. Moreover, we are talking about basketball!
The United States after the failure at Athens Olympic Games and their defeat from Greece in the semifinals of the 2005 World Cup, changed their approach to the tournaments. They started to scout better their opponents and have more complete rosters. As a result they dominated in two consecutive Olympic Games (Beijing 2008, London 2012) and the 2010 World Cup in Turkey.
Spaniards were very competitive in both finals of the Olympic Games, but in this World Cup of Spain, we do not believe that the team USA is the favorite! We expect a very balanced game between two very tough teams and the hosts are probably the real favorite because of a combination of reasons we explain below.
Rosters:
Mike Krzyzewski’s team: DeMarcus Cousins, Stephen Curry, Anthony Davis, DeMar DeRozan, Andre Drummond, Kenneth Faried, Rudy Gay, James Harden, Kyrie Irving, Mason Plumlee, Derrick Rose, Klay Thompson.
Juan Antonio Orenga’s team: Alex Abrines, Felipe Reyes, Victor Claver, Jose Calderon, Sergio Rodriguez, Ricky Rubio, Rudy Fernadez, Sergio Llull, Juan Carlos Navarro, Pau Gasol, Marc Gasol, Serge Ibaka.
United States don’t “outweigh”
Can we see 10 reasons that show us why in this World Cup things will be more difficult for the United States?
1. The roster of Spain has clearly much more experience in FIBA’s international competitions.
2. Five players of Spain have played a lot of games in the NBA and as a result they are very comfortable with their opponents so far. This is very important for their psychology. Additionally, all the others have played for NBA teams or they have demonstrated great character on the court.
3. There is plenty of talent in USA’s front line, but is there someone who can say that Spain – with brothers Gasol and Ibaka – is worse than USA? Nobody could say that.
4. Theoretically, the strength of USA seems to be a combination of talent, athleticism and shooting skills in their backcourt. On the other side, how easy is it to stop the cooperation of Spain’s guards like Rubio, Rodriguez, Llull, Navarro and Rudy? Players who know much better each other than the Americans’ guards!
5. Home advantage is important. It will give more energy, rhythm and confidence to Spain’s players.
6. The overall consistency of the teams. In the last decade and after the Gold medal in 2006 Spain has the same core. We can’t say the same for USA.
7. Most of the NBA superstars are absent from the World Cup. Paul George was very unlucky because of his injury, but the biggest absence for Team USA is the one and only Kevin Durant. The mega star of Oklahoma, because of his shooting skills – even if his game has a lot more aspects – is the most important player for games played by FIBA rules. The 2010 World Cup in Turkey is the best example – proof.
8. It would be preferable for USA to not have any other player except Durant. His absence will permit USA’s opponents to adapt their defenses with more ease, to close spaces and take more risks with USA’s shooters.
9. Derrick Rose, Stephen Curry, James Harden, Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson are the players, who will have the most offensive responsibilities. On the other side, Spain has some really good on the ball defenders (Llull, Calderon, Rubio), while Serge Ibaka raises the level of overall defensive effectiveness for the hosts.
10. Spain has lost two finals from USA and for some players this World Cup is the best chance to say good bye to the national team in front of their country’s fans. That’s a the biggest possible motive!
Of course, Team USA is very strong and very talented team and most of the people believe that they remain the favorite for the Gold. However, this time the opponent is more powerful and dangerous than ever!
What is your opinion? Who’s the favorite to win the World Cup?