Questions about Derrick Rose's health that may have been lingering were silenced on Saturday, when Rose resembled his old self against Brazil in a 95-78 exhibition win over Brazil.
Rose has played in just 10 NBA games over the past two seasons thanks to a torn ACL followed by a torn meniscus. With multiple NBA stars declining to play in the 2014 FIBA World Cup, followed by Paul George breaking his leg in a scrimmage that preceded Kevin Durant backing out of the tournament last minute, Rose might be counted on to lead the way.
He scored seven points in 24 minutes this weekend, and showed that at least physically he is back.
"I'm playing the way I normally play in the trials," Rose said. "Push the ball, play defense and get guys shots. When the shot is available, take the shot, and I think that's what I did tonight. I had one or two turnovers, but that could easily be changed."
His Team USA teammate, Anthony Davis, will have a big burden to carry as well as the de facto leader. Among those still playing for Team USA Davis is the clear top dog in the frontcourt. He responded well to the increased pressure, topping the scoring column with 20 points while also anchoring the defense. He did all this with the backdrop of a homecoming in Chicago adding to the strain.
"It felt great," Davis said. "The first time I played on this floor since high school. It's great to be back here in front of my home crowd, friends and family coming out and supporting me. Most importantly, we got the win."
Davis may just be 21 years old, but if his NBA production is any indication, the Team USA frontcourt will be as difficult to handle as it has been in years past. Davis scored 20.8 points and grabbed 10 rebounds per game for an injury-depleted Pelicans team.
When last healthy, Rose was scoring 21.8 points a night to go with 7.8 assists.
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