Annihilation by the Americans

     In their third game of Group A pool play for Team USA, they faced a Nigerian squad who was simply outmatched. Nigeria had beaten Tunisia days before, but was absolutely pummeled by the United States. Nigeria has two players, Al-Farouq Aminu and Ike Diogu, who have NBA experience, but they had no shot at competing as soon as the game started. So what new records did the Americans make in just this one game? Here's a quick rundown:

1. Team USA's 156 points against Nigeria is an Olympic record, eclipsing the old mark which was held by Brazil (138 points).

2. Team USA scored 78 points in the first half, enough to beat Nigeria's final score. It was the most points ever scored in a half at the Olympics.

3. They set US records with field goals made (59), three-pointers made (29), and field goal percentage (71%).

4. Carmelo Anthony set an individual US record by scoring 37 points, surpassing Stephon Marbury's high of 31 points, and made ten three-pointers in the game.

Carmelo Anthony was the leader of the shooting clinic against
Nigeria, and helped Team USA win by a monstrous 83 points.

     This performance by Team USA is one for the history books, literally. Now, is it safe to say that every USA fan expects them to win without a problem? Some people, myself included, expect teams like Spain, Argentina and Brazil to compete and possibly beat Team USA. But, Team USA hasn't really faced any competition. Some teams have been able to take on the United States and hang with them in the beginning of the game. However, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and company have been able to separate their team from their opposition in the second half. The game against Nigeria has shown Team USA's true capabilities and power, but can they maintain their incredible play? Most people expect Team USA to win the Gold Medal, but now is it a requirement they win after their annihilation of Nigeria? No team has ever utterly dominated another team in an Olympic basketball game. If the United States falls, it will certainly be one of the biggest collapses in Olympic history. Do you think it's now a requirement for Team USA to win the gold after their performance against Nigeria? Or do you think there is still a chance that Team USA can experience defeat? Leave your thoughts in the comment section! Thanks for reading!