Team USA’s unbeaten streak ended in history after losing 110-104 to Lithuania in the group stage of the 2023 FIBA World Cup on Sunday.
After trailing by 17 points in the second half, Team USA struggled to pull the game to within two possessions for most of the fourth quarter.
Jalen Branson He had yet to miss a free throw in the entire tournament. After fouling a deep shot in the final 30 seconds, he missed the first of three shots to put Team USA within five points, 107-102.
He returned to the line 16 seconds apart, making both attempts to cut the deficit to two points. reached clutch interception Paolo Bancherowho could not convert a steal into a basket.
Regardless of the result, both teams will advance to the tournament. The match set the stage for the upcoming quarter-finals, which begin on Tuesday.
Lithuania was dominant in the first half, controlling the boards and leading 54-37 at the break. Shooting was the main difference, as Team USA went 3-for-10 from deep. Lithuania was much more efficient, going 9-for-12 from three.
This story will be updated.