With the FIBA World Cup just over two weeks away, Team USA’s head coach Steve Kerr has unveiled a strategic move that could prove pivotal for the team’s success.
Kerr intends to deploy the 2023 NBA Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero as a dynamic center and power forward, capitalizing on the unique advantages this approach offers.
Kerr’s decision is rooted in the need for versatility and innovation. Kerr highlighted the value of having a center who can initiate plays and push the ball in transition. This strategic move aims to disrupt other national teams teams and provide an added dimension to Team USA’s gameplay.
“He’s gonna play some 5,” Kerr said, via ESPN’s Tim Bontemps. “One of the things we really found in [2021] in the Tokyo Olympics was having a 5 who can push the ball and transition and create plays is very difficult for FIBA teams to handle. So he can play some 4, as he showed, but he’ll play plenty of 5, as well.”
Banchero, aged 20, showcased his prowess during his rookie year in the NBA, averaging 20 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 33.8 minutes per game for the Orlando Magic.
Team USA will commence its FIBA World Cup journey in Group C, facing off against Greece, Jordan, and New Zealand.
