The United States remained undefeated in the Olympic qualifying tournament with a 96-69 victory over Mexico in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The U.S. trailed 26-19 after one quarter but moved ahead 49-40 behind Tim Duncan’s 12 first-half points. Duncan led the team with 16 points. Allen Iverson added 13.
The U.S. will play Puerto Rico on Thursday to conclude second-round play. The semifinals, for which the U.S. has qualified, will be Saturday.
With the U.S. expected to gain one spot, there’s a ferocious battle for the other two spots in the 2004 Olympics from this region. Venezuela upset Argentina 97-92 Wednesday, while Canada beat the Dominican Republic 78-75 and Puerto Rico outlasted Brazil 72-70. Argentina, Puerto Rico and Canada are expected to fight for the final two spots.
Sam Smith.
– Lamar Odom joined the Miami Heat, signing a six-year, $65 million contract after the Los Angeles Clippers declined to match it. Odom signed an offer sheet with Miami on Aug. 11.
– The Warriors signed free agent swingman Calbert Cheaney.
