Sticking it to Dirk with D...

Team USA shot miserably against Germany, but still managed to win by 20 points (85-65).
The Americans shot 35% from the field, and only 25% from beyond the arc.
However, when you contain Dirk Nowitzki to the point where he's got more turnovers than buckets... you're in pretty good shape.

Dirk had 5 turnovers, to 3 made field goals (3/12 from the field).

If there were any doubts about the US' inside presence, this glaring difference on the glass should change that. Team USA outrebounded Germany, 48-34... but on the offensive side, it was a ridiculous 22-6.

Chris Bosh was once again borderline phenomenal in limited time:
10 points, 7 boards, and a block in just 14 minutes (more than Dwight Howard's 11 minutes, by the way).

Overnight, Bosh spoke to ESPN radio... and among the things he talked about was feeling like an underdog when he'd be watching Argentina and Spain in action. He obviously respects his opponents enough - which is something Coach K has drilled in from day one.

Concerning Greece, who team USA will play Friday morning at 3:30, Bosh says among their strengths, the Greek move the ball well, they've got 'good inside play', but "other teams respect them too much."

Bosh also noted that the reason why the US is undefeated, is because they frustrate the opposition. They "Intimidate people defensively."

If you've seen any of the games, the proof is in the passing lanes - which they dominate to the delight of fast-breaking basketball fans.

Steal the ball, streak up court, slam it home.

What's not to like?
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I'm hearing conflicting reports about where we'll (the media) will be sitting once the Raptors' season starts... Originally I was told we'd be bumped up to the boxes... however, now I'm hearing that it's just tech guys and writers who will get the bump... which could mean that us broadcasters get to stay courtside.

I guess I'll know soon enough.

Talk to you after Greece.