US BEAT NIGERIA 156-73 IN OLYMPICS BASKETBALL GAME

It was evident from the opening tip that Team USA wouldn't have a problem putting a shellacking on Nigeria, but nobody could have expected that the United States would break the record for most points scored by a team in the Olympic Games.

Carmelo Anthony set the record for most points scored by an American in Olympic competition with 37 by putting on one of the best shooting displays the sport of basketball has ever seen to lead his team to a 156-73 win.

Kevin Durant started off the record-setting night with a wide open three-pointer, and the rout was on from there. The United States put on a shooting clinic in the opening quarter, creating easy perimeter shots through perfect ball movement.

Team USA's tenacious perimeter defense tortured the less talented Nigerian players, leading to fast break slams and plenty of high-flying alley-oops, but it was the outside scoring that stole the show.

Coach K and company showed some class in the second half by pulling off (slightly) of the pressure defense and giving the Nigerians some room. It wouldn't have been so embarrassing for Nigeria if the Americans cooled down from behind the arc, but Melo and company hit 29 threes.

There's no doubt that Team USA is far and away the favorite to win the gold medal, but it could get even worse for opposing teams if the NBA stars continue to play at this level.