The United States women’s basketball team is expected to improve as the Olympics progress, as they develop better teamwork and gain more experience playing together. However, it is undeniably a great advantage to have a larger size.
The United States capitalized on their advantage in their Olympic debut, overpowering the smaller Japanese team with a resounding 102-76 win in a rematch of the gold medal game from 2021 in Tokyo. They have maintained an impressive winning streak in the Olympics since 1992, and they are on track to secure their eighth consecutive gold medal.
There is a notable height difference between Japan’s tallest player, who stands at 6-foot-1, and Team USA, which boasts six players who are that height or taller. The differential played a crucial role in determining the outcome of the game.
Team USA dominated the game by consistently capitalizing on their size advantage, scoring 64 points in the paint through well-executed entry passes and offensive rebounds.
A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart showcased their dominance in the paint. Wilson displayed an unwavering determination in seeking her shot and pursuing loose balls, converting 10 of 16 attempts for 24 points and securing 13 rebounds, with six of them on the offensive end. In addition, she managed to secure four blocks.
Stewart effortlessly created scoring opportunities by sprinting down the court and leaving the Japanese defenders behind, showcasing one of her signature moves. She had an impressive performance, shooting 11 of 15 and scoring 22 points while also grabbing eight rebounds. In addition, she had two blocks.
Chelsea Gray skillfully broke through the Japanese defense, creating opportunities for her teammates with precise passes. She ended the game with an impressive 13 assists, falling just short of the American Olympic record. The U.S. wrapped up the game with an impressive 34 assists, showcasing their excellent ball movement.
Team USA struggled with their outside shooting, only making one of their first 13 3-pointers. This gave Japan’s outside-shooting specialists an opportunity to stay competitive for a while. During the first half, the Japanese impressively made nine 3-pointers, managing to keep the score within 10 points until late in the second quarter.
Source: ABC News