The US Olympic Basketball team on the women’s beat France in the final prelim. Both teams will move on to the next round.
First Quarter
The US started out hot 9-2. But, France closed the gap and tied it at 13. Diana Taurasi left the court and was said to have a wrist injury. She had hip issues before the Olympics and the team was being cautious with her. Sue Bird came in 1-15 during the Olympics. She has no problem facilitating but the shots are not falling for her. France came out attacking relentlessly. France had lead after one 22-19. Iliana Rupert was on fire early on. She is also a draft pick of the Las Vegas Aces of the WNBA.
Second Quarter
France had control of the second quarter early on and kept the momentum going. However, the US tied the game at 39. Taurasi returned to the game. Brianna Stewart heated up with 14 points of her own. 50-44 was the lead at halftime in favor of the US.
Second Half
The third quarter seemed even with both teams getting plenty of scoring chances. The US tried to feed the bigs where they had the clear advantage. France closed the gap to five then Brittney Griner forced her way in. Taurasi had to come out with three fouls. France was able to run with the US better than any team thus far. It was a slim US lead 71-68.
France scored quickly scored and Tina Charles countered. A’ja Wilson had 20 points as the US took a six point lead and France took a time out. France kept fighting and kept narrowing the score. The Americans had a nine point lead as France took a timeout. The US hit the gas pedal one last time and won 93-82.