Brazil vs. USA best bets: LeBron James, Leo Meindl

The picks — SGP: Brazil +36.5; LeBron James 10+ points, 4+ rebounds, 4+ assists; Leo Meindl 4+ rebounds (+120, Caesars)

Caesars Offer: Up to $1000 Back in Bonus Bets

After Team USA failed to utterly annihilate a far inferior Puerto Rico in its last game, this opportunistic bettor scribbled a salient personal note — FADE the Americans on the spread.

Featuring NBA All-Stars throughout the roster, Steve Kerr’s group somewhat shockingly has yet to embarrass an opponent at the Paris Olympics. Serbia, South Sudan and Puerto Rico were never remotely a threat against LeBron and company, but the underdogs at least remained mostly competitive.

The Americans are again a heavy favorite for Tuesday’s game against Brazil (-26.5, Caesars). How will they fare in Tuesday’s quarterfinal? Here’s a rundown of SGP legs in Brazil-USA.

Brazil +36.5 alt spread. Taking liberty with the aforementioned advice, investing in the alternative market provides a padded cushion. In prior battles against France, Germany and Japan — teams rostering a number of NBA talents — Brazil stayed within 18 points in each. Splashing 45.3% from three-point range in the Olympics, the Brazilians’ arc abilities alone should stave off a complete humiliation.

LeBron James 10+ points, 4+ rebounds, 4+ assists. The King’s crown still fits. The heart and soul of Team USA, James has routinely stuffed the stat sheet. In the Red, White and Blue’s three victories, the living legend has averaged 14.3 points, 6.7 rebounds and 7.3 assists. Cashing in often around the rim, he’s also shot a ridiculous 81.0% from two. Against Brazil, LeBron will again be the picture of efficiency.

Leo Meindl 4+ rebounds. At 6-foot-7, the Japanese B.League product doesn’t possess the banging size needed against the likes of Joel Embiid and Anthony Davis, but he does own a solid knack for cleaning the glass. Against France, Japan and Germany, he averaged 6.3 rebounds per game, reeling in at least five boards in each. The U.S. has converted an ultra-efficient 54.5% from the floor in Paris, but bank on enough iron clangs for Meindl to corral the required rebounds.

Olympic basketball record: 1-4, -2.70 units

WagerWire's Favorite Things from this Creator:

More of Brad's Free Picks and Strategies

Pods: The Fade 5 Podcast