So my final observations - the entire US team played really well. No 2 players had "identical" games, and whoever selected the team did a really good job of putting kids with different strengths on the team.
Boykin had a much better 2nd half. some steals, layups, logged a lot of minutes but did more visible things with her time on the court in the 2nd half. Side note - when on the bench, Durr either sat next to Boykin or Samuelson almost the entire time. Just a random observation FWIW...
REALLY liked Ionescu's game - she came in about the last 7-8 minutes and impacted the game from everywhere. More athletic than Bird at the same age, not as good a shooter, but she was everywhere getting steals, deflections, pestering the French guards, and scoring as well. Reminded me a bit of Faris on defense. Thinner of course, but same type of athleticism and intensity. Oh, and she's got ball handling and scoring skills Kelly didn't possess at the same age. Sign this kid NOW!
Cox also impressed as well. Kid is a bit raw, but you can see the potential. Seems much more a forward than a wing at this time. Needs to work on ball handling and outside shooting, but again, a lot of potential. Oh, and all of the US post players managed to make layups in the 2nd half. Their allergy to the basket seemed to disappear LOL...
Even Mulkey played better in the 2nd half. The rest of my comments from above pretty much sum up the rest of the team. Of the kids who may not be on our rader, IMHO Joyner Holmes should be.
Given that Chou and Cox seem likely to go to school in their own states, I think a full court press on Ionescu is called for. Would love to land that kid.
