Anthony Davis: Learning Experience

Anthony Davis: Learning Experience
Chris Deacon, USA Basketball

Thus far at the London Olympic Games, Anthony Davis has 26 points, 14 rebounds, three blocks, one steal and the highest field goal percentage (.786) on the U.S. men's basketball team. Not bad for someone without any NBA experience on a team full of professional superstars.

The 19-year-old signed his first professional contract with the New Orleans Hornets just 40 days ago. With a host of injuries to the scheduled roster, Davis was drafted in as a last minute replacement for Blake Griffin. Despite the original oversight, he is happy to be in London with the rest of the squad.

"It means a lot to represent my country,a said Davis, following a recent training session. "Most guys representing their country aren't 19 years old, so for me to do it here is special.

"Being with a great group of guys, a great coaching staff and a great management team makes it all fun and that's great for me."

The U.S. opened the Games with a 98-71 victory over France on July 29. In just over eight minutes, Davis managed three points and three rebounds. The senior players poured in the majority of the points, allowing the youngster to step back and reflect on what this opportunity will do to his game.

"Being so young, these Olympic Games will definitely benefit me," he said. "These guys are showing me the ropes, telling me what to do, what not to do and how the NBA can be. So, going into the season I'll have the edge over most rookies because I'll bring these lessons back to New Orleans."

The second came on July 31 against Tunisia. After an impressive, albeit short, display against the French, Head Coach Mike Krzyzewski was eager to give Davis more time on the court.

"Anthony has continued to progress," said Krzyzewski. "He gives us a shot blocker and someone who, offensively, can really finish."

Davis got 14 minutes in a game that the U.S. dominated from start to finish. No fewer than 80 points were scored by reserve players, including 12 from Davis, on the way to a resounding 110-63 victory.

Afterwards, the former University of Kentucky Wildcat was quick to explain his progression in the team.

"In London, I'm trying to train hard and also watch the other guys, to see how they handle everything," he said. "You definitely have to work hard; what you put into life is what you get out of it."

Carmelo Anthony helped the team obliterate several national records by tallying 37 points in under 15 minutes against Nigeria on Aug. 2. By the final buzzer the score was 156-73, an all-time Olympic scoring record performance by the U.S.

Davis got 15 minutes to score nine points and collect six defensive rebounds as history was made at the Basketball Arena.

Originally published by USA Basketball (http://www.teamusa.org)