US Opens World Cup by Downing New Zealand

Austin Reaves (15) of USA shoots the ball during the FIBA Basketball World Cup Group C game between United States and New Zealand at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines, on Aug. 26, 2023. Ezra Acayan/Getty Images

Team USA got off to a sluggish start before pulling away from New Zealand for a 99–72 victory in their opening game of the FIBA World Cup on Saturday in Manila, Philippines.

New Zealand led 14–4 in the first five minutes as the U.S. missed five shots and committed four turnovers in its first 11 possessions.