Team USA got is first test of the FIBA World Cup Friday. They passed but it was a little shaky.
Montenegro, loaded with size and playing with confidence, led at the halftime and refused to let the Americans get separation throughout the second half until pulling away late in the fourth. Team USA ultimately won it, 85-73, on the back of strong play from guards Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton and Austin Reaves.
Edwards scored all 17 of his points in the second half as he sensed the moment and showed off his array of skill from jumpers to drives to getting to the foul line. Haliburton was a star at both ends as he had 10 points, 6 assists and two steals.
The victory puts Team USA in very strong position to advance to the quarterfinals next week. But it underscored that challenge forthcoming, first Sunday against a strong Lithuania team and then potentially onward as the level of competition increases.