USA defeat powerhouse Latvia at FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2023

VIENNA (Austria) - It was Jimmer-Mania in Vienna as Team USA picked up a statement win in their opener against Latvia in the group stages of the FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2023.

A repeat of the FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2023 Gold medal game, the American side made sure history repeated itself. The dynamic duo of Karlis Lasmanis and Nauris Miezis tried to will the Latvian side through, but just couldn’t get a rhythm going against the constant pressure from USA.

It was a team effort to start the game off. Canyon Barry did not let Latvia breathe on offense, stuffing down every action, not to mention finding himself on the strong end of a few highlight plays. Kareem Maddox and Dylan Travis showed out, displaying that hustle to keep the momentum in Team USA’s favor.

After an initial feeling out process for the former NBA star in his World Cup debut, Jimmer Fredette absolutely took over, launching huge twos from deep. If that wasn’t enough, he started cooking from mid-range, draining crazy fadeaways to call game against Latvia. 

Team USA will be looking to ride that confidence all the way to the gold and an opportunity to hoop in Paris next year while Latvia have work to do to find their groove.

Day 2 action rolls on with both teams taking to court again among many other games.