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Introduction
Australia’s women’s basketball team won a crucial victory over Canada, 70-65, on Thursday, 1 August, at Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Lille, at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. This victory was followed by their first group play where they have rather been disappointed by the loss to Nigeria.
Efficient offense of Australia
Offensively, Australia was red-hot, shooting 48 percent from the field and strongly from deep at 40 percent. The team had very good ball movement to the tune of 24 assists, with bench support crucial to the tune of 26 points.
See also: Katoto’s Brilliance Leads France to Quarterfinals at Paris 2024 Olympics
Key Players and Their Contributions
Sami Whitcomb led the Australian team with 19 points, going 7-10 from the field and 2-3 from deep. Stepth Talbot, Marianna Tolo, and Cayla George all scored 11 points. George discussed how returning to the basics and the deep roster of the Opals played an important role in the win.
“It was closer to Opals basketball than the other day, that’s for sure. We’ve got a really deep team and that is the beauty of the Opals,” George said. “It’s great to get the win, and onto the next.”
Challenges and Areas of Improvement
Even with the win, there were issues with Australia, recording 20 turnovers that ended up producing 20 points for Canada. Whitcomb knew they had to improve the way they handled pressure and not turn the ball over so much.
“It’s something we’re continuing to talk about, focus on pressure releases through our ‘bigs,'” Whitcomb said, “but also recognizing momentum swings, too. In general, just slowing down, getting all the basics, getting good leads, making the right pass.”
Performance and Takeaways of Canada
Canada won their opening game against France but then labored with their shooting, including only 31 percent within the arc. Bridget Carleton had a huge game, going for 19 points and 7-12 from the field, 5-7 from three. Kayla Alexander and Kia Nurse also scored in double figures.
See also: Team USA Defeats Belgium 87-74 in the Paris 2024 Women’s Basketball
Reflections from the Canadian Team
Aliyaah Edwards said Canada started with high energy and in control but lost their way in the second half.
“We came out with more energy. We were very disruptive on the defensive end, and we got what we wanted on the offensive end,” Edwards said. “Second half, we just let it slide.”
The players could not hide their positive feelings about the effort they made for this performance despite losing the game.
“The grit that we played with, the pride that we played with. Our first showing wasn’t us, and we know that we represent so much more when we put on a Canada jersey,” said Natalie Achonwa. “I was really proud of how we came out today and how we fought.”
Upcoming Matches
Both teams return to action on Sunday, 4 August. Canada is set to take on Nigeria at 7:30 a.m. EST, while Australia takes on France at 3 p.m. EST.
Australian Strategic Approach to Victory
Ball movement was an outstanding part of Australia’s offense, creating open shots and capitalizing on opportunities. Efficiency in ball movement and finding the open player were crucial aspects of their shooting success.
Defensive Adjustments and Turnover Management
Their defense showed them pinpointing pressure on the Canadian offense and forcing them to take hard, difficult shots. Turnovers still remain a work in progress. By controlling turnovers, Australia will not only limit the opponent from scoring but also keep the possession of the game.
First Half Dominance
That was an early broad mass display by Australia, which had established the lead due to effective shooting and a great defense. They could execute plays in the first half and play consistently.
Second Half Resilience
Canada really pushed hard in the second half, but it is the resilience of Australia in withstanding such pressure and responding that did it for them in the end. It was key defensive stops and important baskets late that sealed it for the Opals.
Conclusion: Australia’s Women Basketball Victory
This was an important win for Australia’s women’s basketball team over Canada at the Paris 2024 Olympics—proving their depth and potential. In fact, thanks to some great performances by the key players, support, and development of the weaknesses have placed the Opals in a very good position leading into their final match against France. When both teams turn their focus to the next challenges, the spirit and determination shown in this one will surely fire up their future efforts.