Great Britain has remained undefeated at the FIBA U20 tournament thus far thanks in large part to San Antonio Spurs’ Ryan Richards.
On Sunday in a 79 to 66 win over Denmark, Richards was “looking out of sorts” reports HoopsFix.com, even though his team won.
Before Game two on Monday against Denmark, Richards was determined to have a much better game and remain undefeated.
Monday evening was a different story as San Antonio Spurs draft pick Ryan Richards came out on a mission. Tweeting simply ’40′ half an hour before tip off, Richards made his intention clear as he proved to the Danes what a dominant force he can be, coming two short of his target on his way to a 38 point performance as GB beat Denmark 70-58.
Richards took the weight on his shoulders as Denmark could do little to stop him. Hitting from inside and out whilst drawing fouls, they had no answer for the 7 footer who finished with a 45 efficiency rating.
Richards shot 12/23 from the field (1/5 from three) and 13/16 at the line whilst adding 7 rebounds, 1 assist, and 3 steals.
After the game, the British coach commented on the superb game Richards put together for Great Britain.
“It was a better performance from Ryan (Richards) in terms of his leadership and all round game tonight (Monday), and we’re going in the right direction – that’s the important thing.”
It sure would be nice if the Spurs could find a way to buy out Richards’ current overseas contract and have him working out in Austin until the lockout ends. That however, is still unknown with the lockout and all of it’s “million” dollar regulations between teams and players.
The Spurs sure could have used a player of Richards’ tenacity this past season when teams like Memphis dominated them in the paint.
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