Rise from the ashes. That would’ve been the thought going through the minds of the Team USA stars ahead of their second Tokyo 2020 fixture. After a tame performance in Game-1, the Americans’ next hurdle was Iran. Kevin Durant and co. face a do-or-die situation in every match now, and have no room for error. Provided they want to regain their gold medal, Popovich will have to field his best side right through.

Team USA on the hunt against Iran

After a tough opening night, USA had to bring out their best versions to secure a win. They started with Lillard, Booker, Durant, Holiday and Adebayo. Fielding an attacking lineup, fireworks were on the cards. And Team USA did not disappoint. Playing a high line of defense, Iran was sent an early warning. Being on the wrong side of turnovers did not help their cause either. The team in red, however, was brilliant with their rebounds. Countering the high line played by USA, the Iranians were quick in retrieving the ball and going on the attack again.

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Nonetheless, as most people expected, the United States took the early lead. Damian Lillard and senior player Kevin Durant were the focal points of the American attack, slamming in the baskets when required. The Portland star in particular was lethal, with 9 points in the opening phase of the first quarter. At the end of Q1, USA led Iran 28-12. In the second half, USA continued dominating with their aids off the bench. Jayson Tatum, Zach LaVine, and Jerami Grant, all tore into the Iranians. The Americans secured a landslide lead at halftime.

Draymond Green with a minor brain-fade moment

With the domination that USA was portraying, some of the errors went unnoticed. In one such hilarious instant, Golden State Warriors’ Draymond Green was the victim. Having an open shot at the basket, Green did something baffling.

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The incident occurred late in the first quarter. USA, who was dominating the proceedings, had everything under control. In an attacking passage of play, the powerful star Green received the ball in a perfect position to slot home a two. However, leaving many in splits, Green chose to make a cyclonic turnaround and pass the ball back.

It was a rib-tickling act, but went relatively unscathed. Team USA continued their dominant run, and look all set to get back to winning ways.