Austin Reaves leads way as U.S. wins FIBA World Cup opener - ESPN

MANILA, Philippines — As Team USA has gone around the planet over the last month it has become clear that Austin Reaves, riding his Los Angeles Lakers popularity, is adored as he's cheered from the moment he steps on every court.

But his turn on this roster has also been a celebration of his emerging stardom for his play. He took another step in that direction Saturday night as he was a driving force in Team USA's 99-72 win over New Zealand to open the FIBA World Cup.

Reaves' all-around production, spirit and poise were a difference maker as he and some fellow bench players pulled the Americans out of an early malaise in a game that will have to be a building block if the team wants to keep its favorite status.

He finished with 12 points, six assists and three steals but those numbers don't quite portray his impact. This one, however, does: +19. That was his plus/minus as his effect on the flow of the game was profound.

The sellout crowd at Mall of Asia Arena delighted in it, exploding with glee when he made his «ice in my veins» pose after a 3-pointer.

Bench teammates Tyrese Haliburton and Paolo Banchero deserve special praise as well. Haliburton was a +13 with 10 points and Banchero, who made his first six shots and finished with 21 points, was +22. Both saved an unimpressive collective showing by the Team USA starters.

Team USA's pregame routine was totally out of sync. They came out on the floor to warm up and instead of getting into a routine they had to watch a pregame dance ceremony, pose for a team photo and then respectfully watch as New Zealand's players performed their traditional haka dance.

The Americans had been briefed all this would be happening as part of the first-game formalities but it wasn't clear