After a disappointing start to Olympic group play with an emphatic loss to France, the Canadian women’s basketball team has much to prove on Thursday against Australia.
A loss was one thing, but losing by 21 points in a tournament where point differential could make the difference between heading home or moving on was not an ideal start. The silver lining for the Canadians was that outside of a nightmarish second quarter when they were outscored 23-2, the score was even through the other three frames.
Meanwhile, the Aussies are hoping for a bounce-back of their own following a stunning loss to Nigeria in their first game of group play. A 13-point defeat for the No. 3-ranked team in the world was not what most had in mind, let alone against the 12th-ranked squad.
That brings us to Thursday where it’ll be a battle between two desperate teams — both Canada and Australia needing a win to regain some control in Group B standings.
Here are the key moments from the game.
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Second quarter
• 8:47 – Another three for Carleton! The Chatham, Ont., native knocks down her third of the game to put Canada back on top. She’s yet to miss from downtown. 21-18 Canada.
First quarter
End of the first quarter: Australia 18, Canada 16
• 0:01 – With the clock winding down, Carleton penetrates and kicks to Achonwa who knocks down a jumper from the left baseline to cap off a 5-0 run by Canada to end the frame.
• 3:06 – Carleton knocks down her second three of the first quarter. A timely bucket for Canada, it’s first in nearly three minutes. 14-11 Australia.
• 4:17 – Alexander denies Lauren Jackson in the paint not once but twice! 11-8 Australia.
• 8:47 – Carleton breaks the stalemate with a three for the game’s first basket. A welcome sight for the sharpshooter after her slow start and two-of-six shooting performance from distance against France.
• 10:00 – We’re off! Australia wins the opening tip
Pre-game
• Canada is sticking with the same starting five of Shay Colley, Bridget Carleton, Kia Nurse, Natalie Achonwa and Kayla Alexander.
• Canada is 3-0 against Australia at these Olympic games, with wins in 5×5 men’s basketball, 3×3 women’s basketball and a stunning upset in women’s rugby sevens. Will the No. 5-ranked Canadian women make it 4-0?
In a highly anticipated match-up between Canada and Australia in the Olympic Women’s Basketball tournament, both teams are showcasing their talent and determination on the court. As the game unfolds, fans around the world are eagerly following the live updates to see which team will come out on top.
Canada, led by star players like Kia Nurse and Natalie Achonwa, is known for their strong defense and fast-paced offense. They have been a force to be reckoned with in international competition and are looking to make a statement in this game against the tough Australian team.
On the other side, Australia boasts a talented roster including Liz Cambage and Ezi Magbegor, who have been dominating in the paint and scoring at will. The Australian team is known for their physicality and aggressive play style, making them a formidable opponent for any team they face.
As the game progresses, both teams are trading baskets and playing tough defense to gain the upper hand. The score is neck and neck, with each possession crucial in determining the outcome of the game.
Fans are on the edge of their seats as they watch the intense battle unfold between these two powerhouse teams. The atmosphere is electric as the players give it their all on the court, leaving everything on the line in pursuit of Olympic glory.
Stay tuned for more live updates as Canada and Australia continue to battle it out in this thrilling Olympic Women’s Basketball game. Who will emerge victorious? Only time will tell.