First, let me say that FIBA officials have something against Team USA.  After watching this game, I have never seen such an inconsistent implementation of the rules.  Maybe I shouldn’t say inconsistent, but rather consistently in favor of Team USA’s competitors.

A slap over someone’s shoulder as they drive to the hole is a foul in any league.  A screen cannot be set when the picker is on the move.  Reaching in for strips from behind after conceding being beaten off the dribble.  Defenders not having established position when drawing a charge.  These are all calls that should be made regardless of the league of play, and should not be up to the discretion of the referee.

With that in mind…and after a mediocre performance yesterday against Lithuania, what could we expect from Team USA today as they battled the defending world champion Spaniard team?

If nothing else, we could expect a more physical, well-rounded test from a Grade-A FIBA opponent.  And that’s exactly what the Americans got.

And, although it was not fully convincing, Team USA managed to hold on to a 86-85 victory over a Spain team that didn’t feature Pau Gasol.  But just in case anyone failed to notice, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony and Dwayne Wade aren’t playing for America, either, and I’d say that they are just a tad bit better than Gasol.

The Americans were led by Kevin Durant’s 25 points.  But it was his defense that saved the day, as he blocked two shots in the waning seconds of the game – including one at the buzzer – to seal the deal.  Durant stayed aggressive, shooting 9-16 from the floor and also contributing 10 rebounds.  He led four players in double figures as Derrick Rose (13 points), Lamar Odom (12 points, 9 rebounds) and Chauncey Billups (10 points) all scored ten or more points.

Durant's late defensive plays secured the victory for Team USA.

Spain countered with three big contributors.  Juan Carlos Navarro, who could never really catch on with an NBA team, played great with 20 points and six assists.  Felipe Reyes scored 16 and the Memphis Grizzlies’ Marc Gasol scored 17.  But Gasol proved to provide Spain with something that the USA lacked – a player with some true low post skills.  The 7’1″ Gasol forced the Americans to play honest defense, but ultimately his team was unable to capitalize as they only shot 23% (5-21) from three-point range.

Although Team USA was more aggressive with their ball penetration, they were not rewarded for their efforts.  Spain got 11 more free throw attempts than the Americans.  Those free throws kept Spain in a game that was dominated by spurts of play from both teams.  When Team USA was able to get out and run it was most effective.  Spain was at its best when it worked its offense through Gasol.

Spain’s fourth quarter run has to be of the most concern to coach Mike Krzyzewski.  He must coach his team on how to finish off their international opponents by maintaing the appropriate level of poise and aggression.

With these two teams being the favorites, they almost assuredly will meet again in the tournament.  And it will probably be just as close.