Just two days after securing USA Basketball’s first triple-double, James scored 18 points, corralled seven rebounds and dished out seven assists, helping the United States defeat the Argentinians for the second time in three games, 109-83.

After allowing 59 points in the first half in their last head-to-head game, the United States held Manu Ginobili and company to 40 points this time and turned the game towards their favor in a decisive third quarter. Much like their other wins thus far, the third frame has been the key to victory for the United States, as they outscored Argentina 27-17 in this one.

Ginobili, who scored 18, opened the third quarter with a 3-pointer to pull Argentina to within four points, but Kevin Durant and James took over with several quick offensive strikes. Durant finished with 19 on 5-10 shooting from beyond the arc, while the 2011 NBA MVP used bruising strength to power to the basket and score.

Carmelo Anthony showed off his scoring prowess once again, scoring 18 points on 50% shooting and four 3-pointers. Kevin Love lead the US again with nine rebounds, who outrebounded Argentina 40-23 on the boards.

With Spain defeating Russia 67-59 on Friday, the US will once again face off against them for a gold medal. The last time these two played for a gold medal, the Americans pulled away in the waning minutes of the fourth quarter, winning 118-107. Tipoff for Sunday’s game is 10 AM.

It was their oldest player, however, that would provide the final dagger against the Boomers.

After the Australian team, behind Spurs guard Patty Mills (26 points) and FC Barcelona’s Joe Ingles (19 points), cut the USA’s lead to just six in the third quarter with an 11-0 run, 16-year pro Kobe Bryant erupted for 20 points on six three-pointers. His first three made attempts helped push the American lead to 70-58, and his last three straight essentially ended the game. Averaging just 9.4 points in the London Olympics, seeing Bryant finally go off was a dream for the US and a nightmare for the rest of the international field.

The United States squad would go on to win big, 119-86 – their second straight Olympics quarterfinal victory over the Australians.

James finished with the first triple-double (11 points, 14 rebounds, 11 assists) in USA men’s basketball history, an incredible accomplishment considering the numerous Hall of Fame players that have donned the red, white and blue jerseys. Even more impressive was the fact that James didn’t commit a single turnover in 30 minutes.

Forward Kevin Love had the team’s other double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds, continually outmuscling the smaller Aussie defenders for rebounds. Kevin Durant was the only other American with more than four rebounds, corralling five defensive boards.

Next up for the United States is Argentina, who defeated Brazil in a nailbiter, 82-77. That semifinal game will be at noon on Friday, August 10.