Photos: Paolo Banchero leads USA Basketball to win over New Zealand in FIBA World Cup opener

Paolo Banchero produced 21 points to lead Team USA to a 99-72 win over New Zealand on Saturday to open the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Manila, Philippines.

The reigning Rookie of the Year with the Orlando Magic played a pivotal role for the Americans throughout the contest. He helped the group overcome an early 10-point deficit in the first quarter with five points and some swarming defense. He later added 12 points in the third quarter as Team USA outscored New Zealand, 31-22, in the period.

With Banchero leading the way, the Americans also got another strong outing from Anthony Edwards. The leading scorer in exhibition play added 14 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Austin Reaves each chipped in 12 points apiece to help USA Basketball start 1-0 in the group phase.

The U.S. enters the FIBA Basketball World Cup as the front-runner to win with a roster featuring a tournament-high 12 players in the NBA. The Americans have taken home the gold medal five times, which is tied for the most by a country.

After defeating New Zealand, the Americans return to action on Monday against Greece and wrap up the group phase of the tournament on Wednesday versus Jordan. The top two teams from each group will advance to the second round.

Here are some of the best pictures from the win over New Zealand.

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Story originally appeared on Rookie Wire