Size matters in international basketball. So does 3-point shooting. Lithuania exceled in both Sunday and beat Team USA, 110-104 for the Americans first loss after nine straight wins — five in exhibitions and four in FIBA World Cup play. Still, the U.S. secured a bid to the Paris Olympics when Serbia defeated Dominican Republic.
The U.S. will face Italy on Tuesday in the cup quarter-finals.
Mikal Bridges played his best game in Manila, scoring 14 points on 5-of-8 shooting over, including 2-of-3 from deep in 26 minutes. He added three rebounds, two blocks, a steal and an assist.