Team USA eyes a second consecutive win in men's basketball competition of the Rio Olympics as the take on Venezuela at 6:00 p.m US EST at Carioca Arena in Rio de Janiero, Brazil.
Preview & Prediction:
After dominating China for third time in three weeks, United States men's basketball team plunges back to action on Monday when they take on Venezuela, which is apparently one of the teams they destroyed during their impeccable buildup for the Rio Olympics.
Kevin Durant, DeMarcus Cousins, Carmelo Anthony and the rest of Team USA just sent a statement to the rest of their rivals after scoring a 119-62 win over China on the opening day.
Team USA shot nearly 60 percent from the field, getting key contributions from different personnel. They also had an outstanding job defensively as they contained China to just under 39 percent.
The Americans will again find themselves in similar situation against Venezuela, which is coming off 86-62 loss to Serbia. Gregory Echenique, who posted 12 points and 5 rebounds, needs to double up his production if he wants to give Venezuela a fight chance against Team USA.
In the end, Team USA's superfluous talents will reign supreme. Prediction: USA by 40+ points.
Key Players to Watch:
Team USA: Kevin Durant dropped 25 points in the game against China and is expected to do more damage against a Venezuela team that hasn't been known much about playing defense.
While DeMarcus Cousins will have all night bullying the opposing team's frontline, Durant will continue to be the uncontested superstar of this USA team, thanks to his efficient sniping from the outside.
Team Venezuela: Echenique looks to be the main offensive guy for Venezuela in the opener, and it appears he's going to be that man again in this match.
Broadcast Coverage:
NBC will broadcast USA vs. Venezuela at exactly 6:00 p.m US EST, while live streaming feed will be available on NBC Sports Rio Olympics Live Stream. Follow the match's boxscores & stats on FIBA Olympics page.