By James Blackburn

USA wins 88-77
Box Score

Game Notes

First Half

• The USA is lacking a play making PG- has mostly scoring guards on roster
• Sloppy game early- USA is turnover prone
• USA is really struggling- giving up open 3 pointers, not getting back on defense, and allowing too many straight line drives to the hoop- poor help defense too.
• Brazil is doing a great job with the pick and roll, which the United States is having a difficult time defending.
• The United States roster is filled with mostly NBDL players- showing it early- too much 1 on 1, no ball movement, and poor shot selection.

Second Half

• Chippy half- skirmish broke out at end of game- no ejections though or technical fouls- the NBA should take note.
• The USA is doing a much better job of defending- they are pressuring the ball and causing problems for Brazil’s guards. End result… USA moves to 2-0 with the win and Brazil drops to 1-1.

Scouting Reports

Jerome Dyson (Tulsa 66ers, 6’4”, G)
10 TP, 4 steals, 26 min

Strengths

Good defender- strong, fights through screens well, contests shots, smart defender, quick hands, pressures the ball well. Attacks the rim hard- strong, physical guard- can get to basket and finish- tough to guard when going right- has a effective through the legs, crossover move. Showed an improved 3 point shot from his days at Connecticut- had feet set, showed good mechanics. Draws fouls at a high rate.

Weaknesses

Poor FT shooter- gets to line a lot- needs to capitalize better there. Virtually no midrange game- either a lay-up or a 3. Struggles with dribbling against pressure. Needs to improve decision making, especially in open court situations. Loves to go right- needs to improve left hand. Takes some plays off- doesn’t play as hard as he can every play.

Overview
Not a true PG- in between positions. Needs to develop a midrange jump shot and/or floater. Also needs to develop ball handling and play making skills if he hopes to make it to the NBA as a PG. Not a consistent enough shooter to play the 2 at the next level. His defensive tenacity will definitely translate to the NBA. Full of potential.

Lance Thomas (Austin Toros, 6’8”, F)
8 TP, 12 reb, 23 min

Strengths
Long, length helps with perimeter defense. Energy guy- great rebounder, especially on the offensive end. Attacks rebounds with 2 hands and goes and gets the ball, rather than waiting on it to come to him. Hustle player- works hard.

Weaknesses
Raw offensively. Looks over anxious/hurried in post and with post moves-lost control of ball several times and needs to finish better.

Overview
Same type player that made him a co-captain from his days at Duke. Probably a D-League lifer- but has the energy and rebounding skills to surely get him several call up and summer league opportunities in the NBA

Blake Ahearn (Erie Bayhawks, 6’2”, G)
21 TP, 2 assist, 21 min

Strengths
Great FT shooter- set the record in college for best percentage. Great shooter in general- can hit the set 3 with consistency. Difference maker in 2nd half- made all the right plays and decisions. Moves well with out ball. Great catch and shoot guy off screens.

Weaknesses
Slow. Not able to get by man offensively. Hurts him defensively as well.

Overview
Intriguing prospect. Showed the ability to play the 1 or the 2 guard slots. Has the IQ and ball handling ability to play the 1, but lacks the speed and athleticism to get into the paint to create for others. Tremendous shooter and is good enough in that one area to get him some 10 day contracts in the league- but lacks the size to play that position in the pros- would not be able to defend a 2 guard. Needs to improve his game off the dribble and passing skills.