Kyrie Irving snaps back at criticism of Team USA
Team USA faced backlash after losing to the U.S. Select Team
Kyrie Irving is no stranger to controversy, although it doesn't usually come from his performance on the court, and in a move to try and defend his fellow professionals, the veteran guard has hit back at criticism aimed at Team USA.
Ahead of the 2023 FIBA World Championship, Team USA played a warm-up game against the U.S. Select Team which featured a number of the nation's hottest young basketball talents.
What followed was both embarrassing and a shock as the team of elite stars was beaten by the youngsters, which sparked a wave of criticism for the team ahead of the tournament.
Whether it was a sign of ill-preparation for the tournament, we can't be sure, however things don't look especially good for the Americans ahead of a tournament they are always expected to dominate.
However, Irving jumped to the defense of the team, urging fans to take it easy and not press the panic button after just one bad performance.
"It happens, it's part of the game when everybody is trying to find a role and earn playing time," Irving posted on Twitter.
"You gotta give the guys on the World Cup team time to gel and get to know each other's game.
"Don't over reach with this post."
Whilst the scrimmage defeats were disappointing, there needs to be an air of perspective surrounding the United States' basketball team ahead of the World Cup.
That was the point Irving was attempting to make. There are still three weeks before Team USA plays their opening game at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, and in that time a lot of concepts and plays can be worked upon.
It's plenty of time for team cohesion to be built and that is likely what will happen for Team USA. There is also a positive way of looking at the situation, with it highlighting the promising future that Team USA has when those from the select team mature into the senior setup.
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