The United States had early struggles against Spain, but eventually settled down behind hot shooting from Carmelo Anthony and took control after halftime. The Spanish team didn't seem to put out their best rotations, so it's hard to tell all that much from this contest, but it has to be a comforting sign that the USA was able to handle things with a smaller and shallower frontline.
For those judging teammate grudge matches, Pau Gasol did have a better game than his teammate Kobe Bryant. Gasol finished with 19 points and five rebounds, Bryant finished with six points and two rebounds. Bryant seemed more content to facilitate, dishing four assists in this one. The USA was led by Anthony with 27 points; LeBron James chipped in 25 points and eight assists.
Chris Paul had five points and two assists, Kevin Love two points and nine rebounds, and Russell Westbrook added nine points and two boards. The United States men's team now will fly to London from Barcelona and get ready for the Opening Ceremony of the 2012 Olympics on Friday before facing off with France on Sunday.
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