Share|

Team USA’s 5-point win (99-94) was certainly a tough test, but even Lithuania’s gritty play and applaudable effort was not enough to pull off the upset:

90 USA vs. Lithuania: Player Grades
Carmelo Anthony has made his presence known coming off the bench in these Olympics, and today was no different. Getting right back at it, Carmelo led Team USA at the half with 14 points, 2 rebounds and an assists. His second half play was nothing but relentless. Anthony found Westbrook on a beautiful cut to the basket, ending in an And-1. Carmelo’s work in the post was impressive. He played with such perseverance, and the second he got the ball, you knew there was no way he would come up empty handed- and he didn’t. Anthony even utilized his go-to shot, draining the contested mid-range jumper with such ease. His rebounding is even worth noting as he outworked his opponents for 3 well-earned boards. Carmelo Anthony finished the game with 20 points (7-13 FGM-A, tied for team-high), 3 rebounds, 2 assists and a steal. He was also a perfect 4-4 from the stripe, which was huge since Team USA shot a poor 61.3% (19-31) as a team. 

91 USA vs. Lithuania: Player Grades

Tyson Chandler saw just 8 minutes in today’s matchup, and to be honest, they weren’t too effective. Chandler finished the game with just 1 point, 1 rebound, 1 steal and a block- but as he left the game, so did the defensive presence in the paint. As the only true center on the squad, he had minimal impact and was not a factor in today’s 5-point win.