Pacers Myles Turner plays vs critics, NBA superstars back at Team USA: 'We were the ones who stepped up'

Indiana Pacers star Myles Turner strongly defends Team USA's FIBA ​​Basketball World Cup campaign with two straight defeats.

It is said to be the defending champion's "worst finish" in a major international tournament and will only finish seventh or eighth place after a series of defeats to France and Serbia.

USA center Turner turned down a statement on social media hours after Team France made them laugh last night, 94-89.

His statement was also in response to the team's demanding demeanor following a frustrating performance.

Turner insists no one can question their heart, sacrifice and effort in the tournament.

“From 1-12, top to bottom, this team, this roster has sacrificed so much for our nation. Our summers, our bodies, our minds. We came up short and nobody can be more upset than us, but I refuse to tolerate any slander for our play. You cannot question our heart, ”Turner said. “Our character, our spirit, we laid it all out on the line each and every game. No disrespect, us this coaching staff or USA Basketball as a whole, but respect that world basketball is an international game, these countries are talented. ”

It also hints at other NBA superstars who withdrew their invitation to become part of the national team.

“We're also the ones who stepped up to the plate when others stepped down. We qualified our nation for the Olympics, we got some work to do to rebuild a legacy that was left before us, we were on the wrong side of history indeed. ”

Recalling the original 19 pools of players individually selected players for reasons such as injuries, preparation for the upcoming NBA season and other issues.