A win is a win, but this was an ugly one.
The United States Men's National Basketball Team barely escaped Turkey, 93-92, in overtime on Tuesday morning in their second pool play game at the 2019 FIBA World Cup. Turkey missed four straight free throws and a game-winning 3-point shot attempt at the end of overtime.
Bucks wing Khris Middleton closed out the victory by nailing two free throws with two seconds left.
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Not only did Team USA survive Turkey by a hair in overtime, but they were also even lucky to even reach the extra period. Trailing Turkey 81-79 as time was expiring in the fourth quarter, guard Cedi Osman fouled forward Jayson Tatum on a 3-point attempt with 0.1 seconds left. Tatum made two of his three free throws to send the game to overtime.
Tatum also severely injured his ankle at the end of overtime and had to be helped off the floor.
Kings forward Harrison Barnes started for Team USA, playing 28 minutes, good for the fourth-most on the squad. He scored 10 points, making two of his six field-goal attempts and hit all five of his free throws.
Barnes also grabbed six rebounds but didn't have his most efficient game. He led the team with five turnovers and was minus-one in plus-minus.
NBA
Team USA concludes their three pool play games Thursday against Japan.