Well ... it isn't more than 8 years ago when that 'can't see it happening' happened. Talent is expanding all over the world, and while that includes the USA, the rate of expansion is probably faster in Europe and Asia. Off shooting nights and fouls is a great equalizer - one of the reasons I think Maya deserved the MVP was she seemed to appoint herself the designated 'good omen' player for USA by taking the first jump shot in just about all of the 6 games and draining it. If she had missed, and then the next player missed ... the pressure starts mounting and it can snowball.
Serbia was down 5 late in the third Q - give them two more good players so the starters didn't tire so much and a few breaks and who knows what happens.
Baylor couldn't see losing to Louisville, TN couldn't see losing to Ball St. etc, but it happened.
Geno is the ideal type of coach for USA basketball because of his experience being overwhelming favorite and keeping his team focused on every play. With the women, I think that is easier to accomplish than with the men, but it is essential to USA success - the minute a coach lets a group of all stars lose focus anything can happen as the men's NBA stars found out.