Spain didn’t go as easy this time. With 2 1/2 minutes to play, the US were only up by 4 points.
Bryant converted a clutch four-point play with 3:10 remaining. Wade added another 3-pointer that made it 111-104 with just over 2 minutes left.
“They began to celebrate during a break after some technical fouls on Spain with 26 seconds left, then partied at midcourt when it was over with “Born in the USA” blaring over the arena’s speakers.”
“We played with great character in one of the great games in international basketball history, I think,” U.S. coach Mike Krzyzewski said.
Dwyane Wade led the team with 27 points, Bryant added 20 points and
Lebron James scored 14 points, while Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul had 13 apiece.
Argentina won the bronze with an 87-75 victory against Lithuania.