Canada Wins Gold In U-19; U.S. Salvages Bronze

We've been saying for some time now that Canada is a rising power in FIBA and the first serious proof of that comes with Canada winning gold in the U-19 World Cup.

The Canadians beat Italy 79-60 and are going to be a force for several years.

The U.S. bounced back from losing to the neighbors with a bronze medal win over Spain, 96-72.

Jeff Eisenberg says it’s not all John Calipari’s fault but if the coach isn't responsible who is?

Mike Krzyzewski and Jerry Colangelo laid down a template for U.S. success in international basketball: superior athleticism and defense are an overwhelming advantage. If the U.S. suffered for “poor chemistry” and couldn’t overcome Canada’s zone, there’s only one person to point the finger at.

You could argue that the U.S. simply took bad shooters or had an off night (6-23 from the floor and 18 missed foul shots). It’s harder to explain missing shots around the basket and it’s impossible to overlook giving up 17 points in the final five minutes.

Not to take anything from Canada. They’re coming and RJ Barrett is really, really good. But the U.S. pretty much folded and really didn't handle pressure well at the end. And that has to be on the head coach. Who else?