The United States women's basketball team secured a spot in the FIBA Women's World Cup quarter-finals with a hard-fought 55-52 victory over Italy on Sunday, overcoming a dismal shooting performance and a late-game controversy.
Nervy Finish and Key Plays
The Americans (2-0) led only 42-39 after three quarters and found themselves trailing by two points on three separate occasions in the final period. Jackie Young's floater and Breanna Stewart's only basket of the game proved decisive. Stewart's jumper, assisted by Young, gave the US a 51-50 lead with 3:20 remaining, and Young extended the advantage with a floater on the next possession.
Chelsea Gray added a pull-up jumper with 1:07 left to provide a crucial cushion, but Italy responded with a quick two-pointer to cut the deficit to 55-52. After Gray missed on the US's next trip, Young corralled the rebound to help her team run out the clock.
Eye-Poke Controversy and Apology
Italy's Cecilia Zandalasini, who missed a three-pointer that would have tied the game with three seconds left, was seen shouting at the referees after the buzzer, arguing she had been poked in the eye on the play. She later expressed regret for her reaction.
“I would like to apologize for how I reacted in the end,” said Zandalasini. “To the opposing team, it was a lot of emotions today, but I should have kept them inside of me a little better. I want to apologize to the referees. It’s just when I wear this jersey, it’s just a different beast that comes out of me, and now I feel embarrassed for how I reacted.”
Statistical Struggles and Standout Performances
The US won despite shooting a woeful 16 of 56 (28.6%) from the field and just 1 for 12 on three-pointers. They were, however, dominant at the free-throw line, outscoring Italy 22-14 there. Caitlin Clark had a particularly tough outing, shooting 0-for-6 from the floor and scoring just one point.
Jackie Young led the team with 10 points, scoring six of them in the fourth quarter. Angel Reese contributed eight points, while Breanna Stewart grabbed 11 rebounds to help offset her 1-of-9 shooting day. Paige Bueckers added seven points, five rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks.
For Italy (1-1), Zandalasini of the WNBA's Golden State Valkyries led the way with 14 points and seven rebounds.
Historic Context and Next Matches
The US narrowly avoided their first World Cup loss since the 2006 semi-finals. According to NBC Sports, this was their closest World Cup game in 20 years.
The Americans conclude Group D play on Monday against the Czech Republic (0-2). In the other game, Italy will face China (1-1), with both teams still holding a chance to advance.
