Former Suns Dynamic Duo Crucial to Team USA's Success
The United States emerged to 4-0 in exhibition play in their prep for the 2023 FIBA World Cup after their 108-86 victory over Greece.
While Anthony Edwards (21 points) continues to impressively lead Team USA, it was the former Phoenix Suns duo of Mikal Bridges and Cam Johnson that shined against a Greece team without the presence of Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Bridges - a starter for the Americans - tallied ten points, two rebounds, two assists and one steal in the victory.
Johnson had 13 points (leading all bench scorers) with two rebounds, four assists and three steals - which led the entire team.
The former Suns duo was dealt in the massive deal that netted Phoenix the talents of Kevin Durant near the trade deadline.
The "twins" have certainly made their impact felt in their initial stretch of action, impressing USA head coach Steve Kerr.
“They’re both really mature,” Kerr said to USA Basketball. “I already knew what kind of players they were from coaching against them. There’s a calming sense from both the guys and they’re also modern-day basketball players: shoot the 3, guard multiple positions, they’re just huge components of this team.”
Both players have emerged as significant contributors on both the international and NBA level.
“It’s just really amazing to be here with him [Johnson],” Bridges said. “It’s wild to even think that I didn’t know Cam very well five years ago and with every passing season we get closer. And now being here and playing for USA, it's just such an honor.”
Johnson returned the favor by adding, “Watching his [Bridges] game grow over time has been just crazy. We have seen each other grow year after year and season after season. Not just our game but our friendship too has grown and it's amazing to see him elevate his game to different levels. Being here together is just great.”
The 2023 FIBA World Cup begins next week, and you'll be certain some former Phoenix fan-favorites will help the USA push deep into a tournament they've already won twice in the last three attempts.
