USA cruise past Tunisia into worlds second round

The USA cruised into the second round of the world basketball championships unbeaten after a big second-half effort saw them pull away 92-57 from Tunisia.

Knowing that this was the last time they would take the court in Turkey, Tunisia came out playing like a team with nothing to lose and proved game opponents to the Americans early on.

Amine Rzig’s seven points kept the north Africans in touch with the USA throughout the opening quarter, which went 19-13 to the Americans.

Tunisia’s determined display continued in the second quarter, a fine shooting display from Marouan Kechrid pegging the score to 39-33.

However, in the second half the scoreline began to resemble something closer to what most had expected with Tunisia’s spirit wilting as the Americans began to run away with it, leading 63-46 with a quarter left to play.

The scoreline continued to increase in the final quarter with Eric Gordon (21 points) leading USA to another easy victory 92-57.

Kevin Durant finished with 14 points, while Stephen Curry and Russel Westbrook were able to produce big second halves to finish with 13 and 14 points respectively.

Kechrid finished as the best of the Tunisians with 15 points.

Australia racked up a vital 76-55 win over Angola to guarantee their second round spot.

The Aussies now have eight points from their five Pool A games, one point behind group leaders Argentina.

Angola could have guaranteed their place in the second round with a win yesterday, but should Germany beat Jordan it will come down to points’ difference for fourth place in the pool.

Results: US vs Tunisia 92-57 Puerto Rico vs Ivory Coast 88-79; Australia vs Angola 76-55; Spain vs Canada 89-67.