Two things, Crash.
1. This belongs in the sports forum.
2. America didn't get knocked out. Top 4 teams out of the 6 in their division go on to the next round (they are playing like a round robin now).
And yes, this American team isn't great because they chose a great team originally, but when everybody except Tim Duncan and Allen Iverson backed out, they chose lack-luster backups. They chose some great 4's and a couple of good 3's, but no quality 1's or 2's (except dwayne wade).
International basketball is played with the shorter three-point line. Basketball America did not capitalize on this. Considering that they have only 1 player on the team who was in the top 50 for 3-point% last season (Jefferson from the Nets, who is defintely not regarded as a quality outside shooter), you knew they would have rough starts, and ends.
Also, since they chose a big team, they should get the ball down low to the post. It is easier in the NBA because of the defensive 3-in-the-key violation, but in international ball, as soon as Tim Duncan or Odom get the ball down low, they automatically have 2 guys guarding them. Then the only option is to pass it outside, but they have no outside shot, hahahaa.
All in all, the american basketball team does suck.