Team USA on the mat!
The U.S. has lost its way into the second qualifying window for the 2027 World Cup 87-79 against the Dominican Republic. Moreover, at home. Handicapped by a disastrous first quarter (8 turnovers), the Americans never recovered, despite Brandon Knight’s 20 points, including 15 in the final quarter.
Dominated in the offensive rebound (16 shots received) by partner Jacel Perez (20 points, 10 rebounds), James Wiseman and his teammates chased the score all night despite the good play of David Roddy in the 3rd quarter. In the final act, Elfrid Payton tried to sound revolt by speeding up the game and attacking the circle. Knight caught fire in the money with a step-back 3-pointer and a layup, but the Dominican Republic held on for the victory.
As a result of this meeting, we find three equal teams, at the top of the group: the United States of America, Mexico and the Dominican Republic with 5 points. Nicaragua, which the United States beat twice during the first “qualifying period,” is last.
The Dominican Republic played extremely hard, but I think we mostly got ourselves into trouble because we were a little tense at the start.said Knight, as his coach Steven Silas looks ahead to the next match, perhaps the deciding one, against Mexico. “It’s disappointing because we’ve had a good training camp; it’s frustrating to come here and lose this match. Going into the match against Mexico, we’ll obviously have more concentration and a better understanding of what we’re going to have to do.”
2026-02-27 12:33:00
