The U.S. women’s basketball team launched their quest for an unprecedented eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal with a commanding 102-76 victory over Japan in Lille on July 29, 2024. This win extended their remarkable Olympic winning streak to 56 games, a run that dates back to the 1992 Barcelona Games.A’ja Wilson emerged as the standout performer, dominating the game with 24 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 blocked shots. Breanna Stewart complemented Wilson’s efforts with 22 points, while Brittney Griner, making her first international appearance since her release from Russian imprisonment in 2022, contributed 11 points and 9 rebounds.The U.S. team’s superior size and strength in the paint proved to be the decisive factor. They outrebounded Japan by a staggering margin of 56-27, effectively neutralizing Japan’s attempts to keep the game close with their frenetic style and long-range shooting. Chelsea Gray’s playmaking was also noteworthy, as she dished out 13 assists, contributing to the team’s total of 34 assists.Despite Japan’s Maki Takada scoring 22 points, the Asian team was ultimately outmatched by the Americans’ physicality and depth. Diana Taurasi, participating in her fifth Olympics, praised the team’s ability to adapt to Japan’s unorthodox style.The U.S. team’s performance has reinforced their status as strong favorites for the gold medal. Their next challenge will be against Belgium on Thursday, as they continue their campaign for an eighth straight Olympic title.
Key points
- The U.
- A’ja Wilson led the team with 24 points and 13 rebounds, while Breanna Stewart added 22 points.
- Brittney Griner made her return to international play after her release from Russian imprisonment.
- The U.
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women’s basketball team won their Olympic opener against Japan 102-76, extending their winning streak to 56 games.
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team’s superior size and strength were key factors in their victory, outrebounding Japan 56-27.
Contradictions👾One source incorrectly stated that the U.
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has not won the gold medal since 1992, which contradicts the widely reported fact of their seven consecutive gold medals.
