After defeating Australia 85-64, Team USA will play for their eighth consecutive gold medal.Four players scored in double digits, led by Breanna Stewart who had 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists.
The ???????? #USABWNT will play for an 8th straight Olympic gold medal! pic.twitter.com/SnM10rWFFJ
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USA Australia
Jackie Young continued her strong shooting as she began the game 4-4 from the field with 8 points, helping Team USA to an early 18-9 lead. Australia would go on an 8-2 run to finish the quarter, bringing them within four points, 20-16.
Team USA dominated Australia early in the second quarter, going on a 12-0 run to lead 32-16.Team USA’s defensive intensity increased in this game, as they recorded 7 steals and 5 blocks while scoring 14 points off turnovers. A’ja Wilson had four of Team USA’s five blocks in the first half.
"It's like she's got SIX ARMS right now." – Noah Eagle
A'ja Wilson with her FOURTH block of the first half! ????????????
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At the half, Team USA led 45-27, with Breanna Stewart scoring 11 points, Jackie Young scoring 10, and Napheesa Collier scoring 6.
In the third quarter, Team USA extended their lead, going up 26 to 66-40 heading into the fourth quarter. The starters would be pulled at the end of the third quarter allowing them to rest before the gold medal game.
The fourth quarter would be the only time Team USA would be outscored, with Australia outscoring them 24-19, but it would not be enough.
Team USA went on to win by 21 points, 85-64, dominating in every statistic, most notably fast break points 26-9. They also dominated in points in the paint 44-28 in rebounding, and they outrebounded Australia 46-34.
Breanna Stewart led Team USA with 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists on 6-of-12 (50%) shooting from the field.
Jackie Young maintained her strong shooting, ending with 14 points on 6-8 (75%), 5 assists, and 2 rebounds.
Ms. Consistent. 3-straight games in double figures for Jack.
???????? #USABWNT #Paris2024 #Basketball pic.twitter.com/mOX6eS2keD
— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) August 9, 2024
Kahleah Copper finished with 11 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists, while A’ja Wilson had 10 points and 8 rebounds.
Isobel Borlase led Australia with 11 points, followed by Tess Madden and Marianna Tolo with 10 apiece.
Team USA will advance to the gold medal game and play the winner of France Belgium which tips of at 12 p.m. There is a possibility that the USA can play France in both basketball gold medal games.
