LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul lead USA basketball past Puerto Rico in World Championships.

Improving to 8-1 against the national team of Puerto Rico, the U.S. overcame a sluggish first half and defeated their overmatched opponent 111- 100 Saturday.

After falling behind early in the first half the U.S. turned up the intensity with strong play by LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul to take their first game in Group D of the world championships.

Behind the 21 points contributed by Anthony and 15 each from James and Kirk Hinrich the U.S. overcame a Puerto Rican team that led 24-23 after the first quarter and 36-32 midway through the second period.

The U.S. team finished with 14 steals, five of which came from Chris Paul and out-rebounded the Puerto Ricans 36-27.

Paul was a catalyst on the offensive end as well with nine assists and 11 points.

Up next for the U.S. will be a match with the Chinese national team, China is ranked 14th by FIBA.

 The U.S. will play five games in Group D in hopes of qualifying for second round play.