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Team USA decided to make a change despite their impressive performance in group play with a +58 point differential. They switched Diana Taurasi for Jackie Young in the starting lineup, which proved beneficial as they defeated Nigeria 88-74.
While Team USA dominated the first three quarters, Nigeria managed to win the fourth quarter 26-12. Despite this, Team USA secured a wire-to-wire victory, earning a spot in the semifinals against Australia.
Box Score at a Glance
A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart continued their stellar performances in this game, with valuable support from Young. Young scored 15 points, grabbed three rebounds, and dished out two assists in her first start of the Olympics. Wilson recorded a double-double with 20 points and 10 boards, while Stewart added 13 points and six rebounds.
Although Napheesa Collier had a quieter game with six points, five boards, and three assists, her presence as a consistent rebounder alongside Wilson and Stewart was crucial for Team USA’s success on the boards.
Team USA once again dominated the rebounding battle, outrebounding Nigeria 43-28, showcasing the strength of their frontcourt with players like Wilson, Stewart, and Collier.
Despite struggling with three-point shooting, only making six of 23 attempts, Team USA had built a significant lead heading into the final quarter, minimizing the impact of their shooting woes.
Young & Thomas’ Impact
Young and Thomas, initially not high on the priority list in the team rotation, have had a significant impact on Team USA’s ability to outscore opponents. Thomas’s rebounding prowess and Young’s defensive skills and speed have added depth to the team’s lineup, complementing players like Chelsea Gray and aiding in creating separation in scoring.
Kahleah Copper Minutes
Despite her strong season with the Phoenix Mercury, Copper has struggled to find significant minutes in the Team USA rotation. While she has faced challenges establishing rhythm when inserted late in games, her versatility as a scorer could be a valuable asset if given more opportunities alongside skilled passers like Gray, Ionescu, or Thomas.
Next Game – Australia
Australia will be the next challenging opponent for Team USA in the semifinals, with players like Alanna Smith and Ezi Magbegor posing significant threats. The matchup promises to be a competitive one, with a spot in the gold medal game at stake.
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