The USA is in great position entering Round 2 of the World Cup — but so are many others

Second-round play at the World Cup starts Friday, with a 32-team field to start the tournament now down to 16 contenders for the Naismith Trophy.

(Ezra Acayan |Pool Photo via AP) Paolo Banchero (8) of USA vies for the ball during the FIBA Basketball World Cup Group C game between United States and New Zealand in Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines on Saturday Aug. 26, 2023.