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Team USA Women's Basketball Defeats Australia for 60th Consecutive Victory, Secures Spot in Olympic Final
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    Team USA Women’s Basketball Defeats Australia for 60th Consecutive Victory, Secures Spot in Olympic Final

    Death, taxes and the United States women’s basketball team keeping its win streak alive at the Olympics.

    The dynastic basketball super-powerhouse won a record-extending 60th straight game on Friday, taking down Australia 85-64 to move onto the final and a chance to win an eighth straight gold.

    Two-time WNBA MVP Breanna Stewart steered the ship in the semifinals, leading the way with 16 points, six rebounds and five assists.

    The team’s other two-time MVP, A’ja Wilson, chipped in with 10 points, eight rebounds and four blocks while her Las Vegas Aces teammate Jackie Young added an efficient 14 points and five assists.

    Australia, meanwhile, was led by its bench unit with guards Tess Madgen scoring 10 and Isobel Borlase with 11. Forward Alanna Smith of the Minnesota Lynx added seven points and seven rebounds.

    The Americans were dominant from the get-go, scoring the first basket of the game and never relinquishing the lead. Their lead ballooned all the way to 18 points by the half and up to 30 in the fourth quarter.

    More than the plethora of all-stars though, the USA’s all-around play was stellar. The defence held Australia to a rough 25-for-69 outing from the field (36 per cent) and the ball moved incredibly well, as they notched 31 assists to Australia’s 16.

    UP NEXT

    The USA will take on host nation France in the gold-medal game on Sunday.

    Australia will take on Belgium in the bronze-medal game on Sunday.

    –––

    FRANCE 81, BELGIUM 75 (OT)

    The French have plenty to cheer for on the hardwood in the coming days.

    Mirroring its men’s team, France’s women secured a spot in the gold medal game after taking down Belgium 81-75 in overtime on Friday’s semifinal and will take on the United States for basketball glory.

    France was led by an impressive all-around performance from Valeriane Ayayi, who finished with 17 points, five rebounds and four assists. Iliana Rupert followed it up with 15 points, seven rebounds and three steals.

    It was a night that saw France’s usual WNBA stars struggle, as Marine Johannes finished with only six points on 1-of-10 from the field and Gabby Williams struggled early on, scoring all but two of her 15 points in the second half and overtime.

    But an impressive defence that forced 22 turnovers and big nights from other contributors saw them helped them weather any Belgian surge.

    Belgium was led by WNBA all-star Emma Meesseman, who poured in a game-high 19 points to go along with 14 rebounds and six assists. Washington Mystics guard Julie Vanloo struggled, putting up 11 points but on 2-of-11 from the field, and turned it over seven times.

    UP NEXT

    France heads to the gold-medal game to take on the USA on Sunday.

    Belgium settles for the bronze-medal match against Australia on Sunday.

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    In a thrilling match-up that showcased the incredible talent and determination of Team USA Women’s Basketball, the team secured their spot in the Olympic final by defeating Australia for their 60th consecutive victory. The win not only solidified their dominance in the sport but also highlighted the team’s unwavering commitment to excellence.

    From the opening tip-off, it was clear that both teams were ready to leave it all on the court. Australia, known for their tough defense and sharp shooting, put up a valiant effort against the powerhouse that is Team USA. However, the American women proved to be too much to handle, with their relentless offensive attack and stifling defense.

    Led by veteran players such as Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi, Team USA showcased their experience and leadership throughout the game. Their ability to control the tempo and make crucial plays in key moments was instrumental in securing the victory. Additionally, younger players like A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart stepped up in a big way, demonstrating the depth and talent of the team as a whole.

    The win not only advances Team USA to the Olympic final but also sends a message to the rest of the world that they are a force to be reckoned with. Their 60th consecutive victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff who have worked tirelessly to maintain their status as the top team in women’s basketball.

    As they prepare for the final, Team USA will undoubtedly continue to focus on their strengths and fine-tune their game plan. With their eyes set on capturing another gold medal, they will look to build on their impressive performance against Australia and bring home yet another victory for their country.

    Overall, Team USA’s win over Australia was a display of skill, determination, and teamwork. It was a reminder of why they are considered one of the greatest teams in the history of women’s basketball and a testament to their unwavering commitment to success. Fans can look forward to an exciting final as Team USA looks to add another chapter to their storied legacy.