bb22 wrote:USA is clearly on another level, talent-wise, in comparison to the rest of the world. That being said, they are human and do struggle from time to time. How much of that can be blamed on the FIBA rules and style of play? Almost all of the international players have been playing in this dimension their entire career. Can you imagine what this competition would look like if they employed NBA rules?
There is some effect acclimating to the FIBA rules; however, I don't think that is the reason for any of Team USA's struggles.
And I use the word "struggle" very lightly here considering the nature of the wins in the exhibitions. I'm more concerned how the team will respond to some of the stronger teams like Spain, Lithuania, France, etc. where their All-Star Game style of play won't work as well.