HERAKLION (2015 FIBA U19 World Championship) - The United States trailed 15-8 but roared back to route Iran, 83-53, in their opening game at the 2015 FIBA U19 World Championship. 

Turning Point: Trailing 22-21 with 6:42 minutes left in the first half, the United States turned up the defensive pressure and went on a 20-2 run to open a 41-24 lead at the intermission. And the reigning champions never looked back with three players scoring in double figures. 

Stats Don't Lie: The USA defense forced 33 Iranian turnovers and grabbed 26 offensive rebounds while making 23-of-37 free throws compared to 9-of-17 for Iran.

Game Hero: While plenty of his teammates compiled impressive box scores, Josh Jackson led the way with 20 points and 10 rebounds. 

The Bottom Line: The United States were given a rude awakening but woke up in plenty of time to right the early struggles. But they also learned a valuable lesson in not underestimating anybody. Iran meanwhile saw that they could stick with an elite team for a certain amount of time.

FIBA