It was thought to be another Team USA vs. Team Spain matchup for gold at the 2014 FIBA World Cup.
Well so much for jumping to conclusions and dismissing other teams.
Team France came into the tourney limping. No Tony Parker, Joakim Noah, Kevin Seraphin, Nando De Colo. They were counted out as legit threats in the field considering they were not at full strength.
But in their matchup against rival Spain, France did the impossible – they sent Spain packing beating them 65-52.
Spurs’ Boris Diaw led the charge with 15 point while Spain’s Gasol brothers and Serge Ibaka struggled.
Now France moves on and Spain is left reeling. They were the heavy favorites in this matchup and were considered a lock to fight for gold.
This leaves Team USA with a seemingly open path to gold seeing how their biggest threat is now eliminated. However, this should serve as a warning for Team USA — do not underestimate any team especially France.
Keep this in mind, France ended Spain’s run not at full strength. Imagine how they’ll fare in Rio with a healthy squad.
France will next play Serbia on Friday while Team USA will play Lithuania on Thursday in semifinal action.
