For this first semi-final in the women's table, the UNITED STATES challenge theAustralia. Jackie Young launches hostilities and Team USA multiplies the counterattacks, facing a very doubtful Australian defensive withdrawal.
Sandy Brondello quickly calls a timeout and the Opals close ranks, notably behind several successful 3-pointers. It's messy on the American side and it allows Australia to catch up (20-16) after ten minutes.
The problem is that the players from the southern hemisphere still manage the defensive withdrawal very badly, leaving too many good outside positions, which the United States ends up punishing. In front of the Bryant family, Vanessa and her daughters, Cheryl Reeve's players widen the gap again. And the gap is +18 (45-27) at half-time…
Team USA wins 60th consecutive Olympics
Unlike the match against Les Bleues, the Australians were also unable to score near the circle.
The gap quickly exceeds twenty points in the third quarter and the Americans begin to have fun. Totally overwhelmed by the speed and defense of their opponents, the Australians are at -26 (66-40) after 30 minutes.
With Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony, Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe watching from the front row, Kahleah Copper finishes off a superb offensive move with a 3-pointer by the United States, who take a 30-point lead. But Isobel Borlase scores several baskets that don't please Cheryl Reeve too much, so she calls a timeout.
There will be no fear on the American side, however, who ensure a quiet and easy victory (85-64) in this semi-final of the Olympic Games. The Americans thus validate a 60th consecutive victory at the Olympic Games.
Photo credit: FIBA
