South Sudan gave Team USA a real run for their money during their high-profile tune-up game on July 20. 10 days later and these two teams meet again. The major difference, however, is that the stakes are much higher. This time around, it’s going to be a matchup in the preliminary round of the men’s 5×5 tournament in the Paris Olympics.
Minnesota TImberwolves star Anthony Edwards knows all about South Sudan, and he definitely isn’t underestimating their opponents on Tuesday.
Team USA News: Anthony Edwards Looking Forward to South Sudan Rematch
Edwards did not have the best of games during their first matchup against the African side. He finished with 11 points on 4-of-11 shooting, an assist, a steal, and a block in 21 minutes off the bench.
On Wednesday, the Wolves guard will want to make a bigger impact for Team USA. He admitted that his team was ill prepared when they first battled South Sudan.
“I mean, we wasn’t ready last time,” Edwards said, via Sam Amick of The Athletic. “We didn’t prepare, so I think we’ll prepare, watch film on them, and come back and be ready to try to beat them.”
Despite the lack of foresight, the Americans were still able to carve out a win, 101-100. It was too close for comfort, though.
As Edwards said, Team USA is now better equipped to face their opponents. They’ve identified their shortcomings form the first matchup, and they fully intend to make a statement on Tuesday.
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