In a commanding performance, the U.S. women’s basketball team kicked off their Olympic campaign with a resounding 102-76 victory over Japan. This win marked a remarkable start to the 2024 Summer Olympics, showcasing the team’s offensive prowess and strong defensive strategies. According to ESPN Stats & Information, the 102 points scored are the most by the U.S. in an Olympic game since their impressive 2016 quarterfinals performance.
The game was highlighted by standout performances from star players. A’ja Wilson led the charge with a dominant double-double, finishing with 24 points and 13 rebounds. Breanna Stewart also made significant contributions, adding 22 points and 8 rebounds. This marked a historic moment as it was the fourth instance in Olympic history where two teammates from the U.S. women’s basketball team scored 20 points each in the same game.
Team USA’s depth was evident as three additional players contributed 11 points each: Brittney Griner, Sabrina Ionescu, and Kelsey Plum. The offensive onslaught was complemented by Chelsea Gray, who orchestrated the team’s play with a game-high 13 assists, showcasing her ability to facilitate scoring opportunities.
The U.S. team’s offensive strategy was well-coordinated, demonstrating their chemistry on the court. Their defensive efforts also played a crucial role, limiting Japan’s scoring opportunities and forcing turnovers that led to easy transition points.
As the tournament progresses, Team USA looks to maintain their momentum and continue their quest for Olympic gold. Their next challenge comes on Thursday when they face Belgium in a Group C matchup. The team’s performance against Japan has set a high standard, and fans are eager to see if they can replicate this success as they aim to defend their title.
Stay updated on every aspect of the Olympics, from schedules to medal counts, as Team USA pursues their mission for glory in Paris.