US beats Nigeria 156-73

Skooter reporting 08/03/12

The U.S. men's basketball team penned another new record in the books Thursday in a 156-73 horse around over Nigeria, a chow down that answered the Americans' detractors after two opening hubbub that prompted criticism of their slow starts and outside shooting.

The team made a remarkable 30 of 37 attempts inside the arc (81 percent) by knocking down shots from every corner of the arena, and hit nearly as many times behind it, surpassing their previous high with 29 3-pointers.

Anthony sank 10 of his 12 3-pointers in his 37-point performance, accuracy that any Olympic archer would take.

Nigeria’s Ike Diogu was quoted as saying, "When they shoot like this, I don't know if there is any team that can beat them.”

There would be much tougher tests for the U.S. when they face against Spain and Russia, however there is no defense for a team having the kind of night the Americans had. They are already acclaimed as the most athletic team in the world, with perimeter shooting allegedly one of their few weaknesses. There are five more games to beat before they can win gold, that’s the only risk for the Americans now.

Bryant made 16 points, Russell Westbrook scored 21 point, Kevin Love had 15, Kevin Durant finished 14. The U.S. will play Lithuania on Saturday. The Americans won their first three games with no sweat, but as they approach next week’s medal round, things are expected to get a lot tougher.

Coach Krzyzewski gave his players a break on Wednesday, a chance to relax and enjoy the games. Anthony and James Harden went to see boxing. Durant watched beach volleyball.

AP