Team USA women's basketball beats Germany at Paris Olympics
Jackie Young scored 19 points and the U.S. showed off its incredible depth Sunday night, beating Germany 87-68 in the Americans' final game of pool play.
The U.S. women's basketball team is a force to be reckoned with, and their performance in Paris has been no exception. Their star power, size, and offensive talent are well-known, but it's their defense that has been the real game-changer in the French capital. Embracing the physicality of the international game, they've smothered their opponents with relentless, energetic defense. This was evident in their match against Germany, where they secured a comfortable 87-68 win despite an off day on offense.
The Americans' defensive clinic was led by Jackie Young and A'ja Wilson, who contributed 19 and 14 points respectively, their offensive prowess taking a backseat to their defensive skills. With Young and Kelsey Plum causing havoc at the point of attack, and Wilson and Breanna Stewart disrupting pick-and-rolls, Germany struggled to find any rhythm. The U.S. forced an impressive 23 turnovers, resulting in a staggering 28 fast-break points. This defensive masterclass has become a trademark of the team, with their opponents in France held to just 40% shooting.
Team USA's ability to dictate the game flow with their defensive intensity is a testament to the coaching of Cheryl Reeve. Their performance against Germany showcased their well-roundedness as a team, as they head into the medal round as the number one seed, aiming for their eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal. With their endless steals, deflections, and energy, this version of the U.S. women's basketball team is writing their own defensive-focused chapter in the sport's history.
The Americans' defensive clinic was led by Jackie Young and A'ja Wilson, who contributed 19 and 14 points respectively, their offensive prowess taking a backseat to their defensive skills. With Young and Kelsey Plum causing havoc at the point of attack, and Wilson and Breanna Stewart disrupting pick-and-rolls, Germany struggled to find any rhythm. The U.S. forced an impressive 23 turnovers, resulting in a staggering 28 fast-break points. This defensive masterclass has become a trademark of the team, with their opponents in France held to just 40% shooting.
Team USA's ability to dictate the game flow with their defensive intensity is a testament to the coaching of Cheryl Reeve. Their performance against Germany showcased their well-roundedness as a team, as they head into the medal round as the number one seed, aiming for their eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal. With their endless steals, deflections, and energy, this version of the U.S. women's basketball team is writing their own defensive-focused chapter in the sport's history.