In the first pre-World Cup friendly – dominated against Puerto Rico – Team USA coach Steve Kerr tried to reshuffle the cards at his disposal by also using Paolo Banchero as a reserve center.
The Orlando Magic rookie forward has repeatedly demonstrated his versatility, first helping build play with injuries to Suggs, Fultz and Anthony and then taking on more prolific scoring roles with the entire squad.
“Paolo will also play a bit as a center,” explains Kerr. “One of the things that struck us 21 at the Tokyo Olympics is that using a 5 that’s capable of propelling the ball in transition (like Bam Adebayo) and creating the game is a good way is to get FIBA teams in trouble, which is not the case.” is used to deal with such a situation. It’s a role Paul can play.”
