Team USA's women's basketball squad narrowly avoided a historic upset on Sunday, defeating Italy 55-52 in Berlin.. The victory ensures their advancement to the FIBA World Cup quarterfinals despite a struggling offensive performance.
A 29 percent field goal rate and a narrow escape
Team USA struggled significantly with their offense at Berlin's Uber Arena, shooting a dismal 29 percent from the field, according to the report. The star-studded roster, coached by Kara Lawson, saw Caitlin Clark miss all six of her shot attempts, while Breanna Stewart missed eight consecutive field goals before finally scoring.
This offensive stagnation was a stark contrast to the team's opening match, where the United States defeated China 94-61. The report notes that the Americans did not successfully land a three-pointer until Paige Bueckers hit one late in the third quarter, highlighting a systemic failure to execute their usual perimeter game.
The ghost of the September 21, 2006 loss to Russia
The near-defeat serves as a reminder of how rare vulnerability is for the US women's basketball program.. As the report highlights, the United States has not lost a FIBA World Cup game since September 21,2006, when they fell to Russia. Since 1994, the program has maintained a stranglehold on gold medals in both the Olympics and the World Cup.
This specific struggle against Italy is particularly jarring given recent history. In a qualifying match held in March,Team USA beat Italy by 34 points, suggesting a level of dominance that vanished during the Sunday clash in Berlin.
How Jackie Young and a 7-0 run saved the day
The game reached a critical juncture with less than five minutes remaining, as Italy held a 50-48 lead. According to the report, the United States managed to reclaim the lead through a decisive 7-0 run fueled by baskets from Napheesa Collier, Breanna Stewart, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray.
Individual scoring was remarkably low for a team of this caliber. Jackie Young was the only American player to reach double digits, finishing with 10 points. Meanwhile, Breanna Stewart contributed 10 rebounds but managed only five points, illustrating the team's struggle to finish plays through contact.
Cecilia Zandalasini's missed three and the 'blood in the water'
The tension peaked in the final 30 seconds when Italy gained possession of the ball following a jump ball.. Cecilia Zandalasini, who led Italy with 14 points, attempted a three-pointer to tie the game but missed. zandalasini claimed she took contact that should have been called as a foul, though the report focuses primarily on the result of the miss.
While the United States has secured its place in the quarterfinals, the narrow margin of victory suggests a shift in the international landscape. The report suggests that other teams now see "blood in the water," as the perceived invincibility of the US rosetr—which includes stars like Angel Reese and Aliyah Boston—was momentarily shattered in Berlin.
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