Team USA moved one step closer to winning the gold medal in the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup after scoring a dominating 96-68 win against Lithuania in their semi-final showdown in Barcelona, Spain.
Kyrie Irving led the way for Team USA as the Cleveland Cavaliers point guard finished with 18 points on 8-for-15 shooting to go along with four assists and two steals, providing the much-needed spark for the Americans after a slow start in the match.
"Kyrie was special in this game, in that third quarter he kind of got us moving and everybody started moving with him," Krzyzewski said of Irving via USAB. "We feel very fortunate to be going and playing on Sunday. I'm proud of my team and their effort, and hopefully we get rested and whoever we play, I hope we give them a heck of a game."
Lithuania managed to stay within striking distance in the first 20 minutes of the match with USA leading by just eight points at the half.
However, the Americans shifted to next gear in the third period where they erupted for 33 points, while limiting Lithuania to just 14 points. Leading by 27 points heading into the fourth period, USA sustained their momentum and never looked back en route to the win.
"We missed shots in the first half. In a few second halves we have played, there is a different focus level, whether it's nerves or us missing shots or others not making the necessary adjustments," Irving said.
James Harden and Klay Thompson also had big games for Team USA as they added 16 points apiece, Stephen Curry posted 13 points, while Kenneth Faried racked up nine points, six rebounds and three assists.
On the other hand, Jonas Valanciunas led Lithuania with 15 points and seven rebounds. Mindaugas Kuzminskas added 15 points and nine rebounds, while Adas Juskivecius chipped in 12 points.
With the win, USA advanced to the gold medal match where they will face either Serbia or France, who are set to collide on Friday in Madrid.
FIBA World Cup 2014 results, scores and schedule are available on this link, while match highlights can be viewed here.
