Tokyo 2020 - Kevin Durant stars as Team USA repel challenge of Ricky Rubio-inspired Spain to reach semi-finals
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ByEurosport
Published 03/08/2021 at 06:46 GMT
Kevin Durant netted 29 points in the match as Team USA proved too strong for Spain. The European side did not disgrace themselves, with Ricky Rubio putting in a mighty display against a side seeking their 16th basketball gold medal. You want it? We have it. Stream every Olympic event live on discovery+.
Jayson Tatum of USA and Usman Garuba of Spain challenge for the ball during the quarter final Basketball match between the USA and Spain on day eleven of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Saitama Super Arena, Tokyo 2020, August 03, 2021
Image credit: Getty Images
USA recovered from a 10-point deficit to blow out Spain 95-81 in the quarter-finals of the Olympic Games basketball tournament.
Spain were well fancied to test the defending champions, and that looked likely when they opened up a double-digit lead in the second quarter.
However, Kevin Durant sparked to life and ensured his side were level at half-time.
The US, seeking a 16th Olympics gold in basketball, took control after the interval and kept Spain at bay.
USA led by 15 at one stage, but Spain cut the gap to six at end of third quarter to threaten an upset - inspired by their team leader Ricky Rubio who scored 38 points.
But as hard as Spain fought, USA had a class advantage and they were able to eke out points at vital moments to keep the European nation at arm's length.
It was somewhat fitting that the final points were scored by Brooklyn Nets star Durant, who scored 29 in the match.
Gregg Popovich’s side will await the winners of the meeting between Australia and Argentina, and they look on an upward curve following their shock loss to France in the pool stage.
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