USA survives vs Italy to advance to FIBA Women’s World Cup quarterfinals: Highlights

Team USA survived a FIBA Women’s World Cup nail-biter against Italy, winning 55-52, the advance to the quarterfinals on Sunday, Sept. 6.

The Americans got out to a hot start in the first quarter, but the Italians, in their second group-play game in Berlin, Germany, brought all the energy and defensive pressure. The U.S. had few answers for Italy's zone. Not a single player saw double figures until the fourth quarter. The first 3-pointer of the game didn't come until the third quarter.

"Obviously, Italy really kind of mucked up the game for us a little bit, and it made it hard on us to score," Breanna Stewart said. "Tough team … this is a tough tournament, but we all really acknowledge that."

Jackie Young led Team USA with 10 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two steals. Angel Reese was right behind with eight points, three rebounds, two blocks and a steal.

The U.S. won its 32nd straight game in the tournament but did not come easily. It was the smallest margin of victory for Team USA since 1979 and lowest shooting percentage (29%) from the floor ever.

"It wasn't our best outing, especially on the offensive end ……

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/sports/