U.S. ready to make run for world gold (AP) Updated: 2006-08-18 08:24 That's been a weakness for the Americans in recent years, but this team has
shot better. The Americans shot 41 percent from beyond the 3-point arc during
the exhibition series. In the 2004 Olympics, the U.S. shot 31 percent from
3-point range on its way to a disappointing bronze medal.
Anthony, the team's leading scorer, and Antawn Jamison each hit 8-of-17
three-pointers (47 percent). Brad Miller is 6-of-7 (86 percent) and Wade 4-of-7
(57 percent) from beyond the arc.
"We've shot the ball very well," Krzyzewski said. "We do have really good
shooters on the team. Carmelo has been unbelievable. I guess on any night or any
afternoon something can change, but we feel that we have good outside shooting."
If the U.S. can keep hitting shots, it will be tough to beat in this
tournament.
Expectations for U.S. basketball are always high. But with five
confidence-building exhibitions behind them, the team's own expectations are
soaring as the tournament tips off.
"I don't think any of us will be satisfied until we can play well and
hopefully win the gold," Shane Battier said.
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