After easy victory, U.S. ready to begin tour of Asia

LAS VEGAS -- With a sensational debut behind them, the American players lingered on the court for a few extra moments to soak up the last of the "USA!, USA!" chants.

It'll be a while before they see or hear from the home fans again.

Hours after closing their second training stint here Thursday night by overwhelming Puerto Rico 114-69 in their lone exhibition on home soil, the Americans departed Friday for a month in Asia, culminating with the world championships in Japan.

"It's the longest trip that I've ever taken. I'm really excited," guard Kirk Hinrich said. "It's going to be a great experience, and the only way it's going to be a truly great experience is to go out and win, so that's what we're focused on."

The training in the Far East begins with games against China and Brazil next week, the first time a USA Basketball team featuring NBA players has played in China.

That will be followed by more training in Korea, which features games in Seoul against Lithuania and Korea. After that, it's off to Sapporo, Japan, for the start of the world tournament Aug. 19 against Puerto Rico.