As long as Joe Johnson can play basketball in some form or fashion, he figures there’s no need to contemplate the end of his career. “I never look at it like that. I’m a guy who loves to hoop. Me and my son; he’s 15 years old; we’re in the gym almost every day working,” Johnson said. “So that’s never my thought process. Even though I’m not playing professionally, I still get a chance to compete.”

Murphy and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., helped announce legislation on Wednesday that would pave the way for Puerto Rico to determine its own status through a binding referendum held in November 2025. Residents would be given the choice to vote on either statehood, independence, or the sovereignty of free association with the U.S.

The Americans (2-1) only need to avoid finishing last in their four-team group to advance to the next round of qualifying, and they look eminently capable of clearing that bar despite the absence of NBA players. Johnson, a seven-time All-Star who briefly returned to the NBA and played in one game for the Boston Celtics in December, is the only big name on the current U.S. roster. Most of the players came from the G League.

“He is as professional a player and person as I’ve ever been around,” coach Jim Boylen said. “When you only have five days to prepare, you don’t have time to waste steps, so you need that. He’s got the experience, and he’s got a great spirit about him. When you lead with humility, guys will follow you.”

The Puerto Ricans (1-2), who seemed to have most of the small crowd on their side, led 32-22 in the second quarter after a layup by Ismael Romero, but the U.S. fought its way back. The Americans trailed 44-42 at halftime, then dominated the third quarter. Jared Harper’s 3-pointer gave the U.S. a 71-58 lead, and then a steal and dunk by Jordan Bell pushed the lead to 15.

“My game isn’t predicated on athleticism. Basically, it’s read for me—just knowing how to play the game. I think at my age, if you can just still get up and down the floor with no problems, man, your game is your game,” Johnson said. “Outthinking these guys is the way I play, and I play the right way. I play winning basketball.”