Kyrie in the clutch poses a threat to rest of NBA

The United States looks ready for the 2023 FIBA World Cup. On Sunday, Team USA defeated Germany to cap a 5-0 run in the lead-up up the World Cup.

The United States also defeated Puerto Rico, Slovenia, Spain and Greece in the past two weeks. The victories over Spain and Germany saw Team USA come from behind to win each game.

Anthony Edwards scored 34 points to lead the Americans over the Germans. Edwards was Team USA’s leading scoring during the five-game exhibition slate at 19.2 points per game on 51% shooting from the field.

Group C play opens on Saturday, August 26 with the United States taking on New Zealand. Team USA will also play Greece and Jordan in group play. The Americans are heavy favorites to advance at the top of the group, especially after Giannis Antetokounmpo of Greece announced he would miss the tournament.

Brandon Ingram would like a bigger role with Team USA than the one he’s had so far this summer. But Ingram isn’t going to let that get in the way of the team’s success, even if it’s not what he envisioned.

“This is totally different than what I am used to,” Ingram told The Athletic Sunday. “The team is winning right now, so I can’t be selfish thinking about myself. But it’s a little frustrating right now for me, and I’m just trying to figure out ways I can be effective.”

Ingram has the ball a lot less with Team USA than in his role as the New Orleans Pelicans primary playmaker. That’s been an adjustment, but it’s one Ingram said he think can pay off in the NBA, as well.

“I know who I am,” Ingram said. “In ways, I can get stuck and think my way is the best way. This is a learning experience. … I get to see everybody work, get to see everybody’s strengths and everybody’s weaknesses, so I can take it back to my team, be smart about it.”