USA's Steve Kerr takes it one game at a time as second round looms

As France was booted out of contention in the 2023 FIBA World Cup by Latvia on Sunday in Jakarta, 88-86, Team USA was monitoring from Manila the upset against the world no. 5 team. 

For USA head coach Steve Kerr, the France loss was a reminder of how competitive the World Cup is. 

"It's a good reminder to all of us that you just can't ease into any game in this tournament," Kerr said in a press conference after their 109-81 win against Greece on Monday. 

"The level of competition is so much better now worldwide even than it was eight years ago."

"Teams are tough. Teams are good. We're gonna have to play well for 40 minutes to win," he added.

After winning their first two outings in the tourney, the United States has already secured its slot in the next round of the tournament.

Still, Team USA is not taking any team lightly in the competition. 

"We just keep going. One game at a time, and hopefully six more," the champion coach said.

The Americans will play Jordan next as they hope to complete a sweep of Group C before advancing to the second round.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News