The United States women’s basketball team secured a hard-fought 55-52 victory against Italy during group play at the FIBA Women’s World Cup in Berlin, Germany. With the win on Sunday, September 6, the Americans earned a coveted quarterfinal berth while extending their tournament winning streak to 32 games.
Gritty Escape Secures Quarterfinal Berth
Team USA faced an unexpected battle against an aggressive Italian defense that held the reigning champions to a 28.6 percent shooting clip from the field. The American squad struggled offensively, hitting just 10 of 35 attempts in the paint and managing a single three-pointer on 12 attempts. Guard Jackie Young shouldered the offensive load as the lone American to score in double digits, finishing with 10 points.
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Despite the offensive struggles, head coach Kara Lawson’s squad leaned on defensive resilience and late-game execution to preserve the win.
Clutch Play Down the Stretch
Veteran guard Chelsea Gray provided the decisive momentum swing in the closing minutes of the contest. Gray drew a crucial charge with roughly three minutes remaining before sinking a tough two-point jumper with 1:07 left on the clock to extend the U.S. lead to 55-50. Lawson praised the sequence, calling Gray’s basket an incredible winning play that ultimately forced an Italian timeout.
Forward Angel Reese also anchored the American effort on the defensive end. Reese contributed two blocks, one steal, and three rebounds while adding eight points by converting all four of her free-throw attempts.
Italy’s Defensive Adjustment Tests the Champions
Italy kept the pressure on the U.S. throughout the matchup, switching from an early man-to-man scheme to an effective zone defense after falling behind 19-8 in the first quarter. Forward Cecilia Zandalasini led the Italian effort with 14 points and seven rebounds, successfully disrupting the American rhythm inside.
“We wanted to break their rhythm because when they get their rhythm, it’s really unstoppable,” Zandalasini said regarding the defensive tactical shift.
Lawson acknowledged the challenging nature of the group stage battle and the value of perseverance for her roster. The four-time defending World Cup champions now turn their focus to the upcoming quarterfinals as they pursue another global title.