![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-8-1-68.jpg?width=600)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-8-1-68.jpg?width=600)
In every international tournament, the expectations on the shoulders of Team USA remain heavy. So, their loss to Lithuania in the FIBA World Cup 2023 second round did not go down well amongst the fans. Amidst the frustration, both Draymond Green and Kevin Durant have extended their support to the national team players.
Green displayed his faith in the young NBA players of Team USA soon after their loss. After the team’s win against Italy in the quarter-final, Durant matched his energy.
What did Kevin Durant say?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The team’s loss in the previous round received massive backlash from the supporters. Many turned their back against the national team, as questions were raised over the squad’s capability of defeating the big teams in the tournament. In the midst of chaos, the Golden State Warriors star posted, “Looking forward to watching the guys win the WC!”.
Read More: With 0 Titles in the Last 50 Years, Die-Hard Knicks Fan Stephen A. Smith Claims to Have “Begged” $176 Million NBA Superstar to Join the NY Franchise
The youngsters proved their worth after comfortably beating Italy 100-63 to secure a semi-final spot. Kevin joined his former Warriors teammate as soon as Team USA moved an inch closer to the gold medal. “Real shit,” the 34-year-old stated before adding, “Let’s bring home another gold fellas!!”.
Real shit, let’s bring home another gold fellas!! https://t.co/hVllTY3Msa
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) September 5, 2023
Both Durant and Draymond have the experience of winning gold medals in the national colors. So, their public display of backing the Team USA carries an immense amount of volume. One question then takes precedence.
Can Team USA prove its haters wrong?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Under the guidance of a star-studded coaching unit, led by Steve Kerr, the team showcased dominance throughout. Their unexpected loss to Lithuania was blown out of proportion because of them falling short of expectations.
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago1033224862h.jpg?width=150&blur=15)
via Imago
USA V Slovenia – Torneo Ciudad De Malaga. Steve Kerr and Tyron Lue of USA Team in action during the Torneo Ciudad de Malaga, basketball match played between USA and Slovenia on August 12, 2023, in Malaga, Spain. Malaga Spain PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxFRA Copyright: xJonxImanolxReinox originalFilename:reinorenon-usavslov230812_np03A.jpg
One of the major sources of frustration for the fans in that game was the lack of contribution from the bench. All that seems to have gone away as the rotation players combined to contribute 57% of the USA’s points in the quarter-final.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story: After Ditching $157,990,000,000 Worth Company in 2013, Stephen Curry Faces “Full Circle Moment” Courtesy of Latest Collab With NBA Legend
The potential for Team USA to win another gold medal is undoubtedly there. So, the support from the NBA superstars towards the up-and-coming stars of basketball made a lot of sense. Now, it’s up to the team to showcase what they have got in these closing stages of the tournament.