A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart Lead USA Past Belgium in Tougher-Than-Expected Battle
In a thrilling encounter that saw the USA women's basketball team fend off a spirited challenge from Belgium, the Americans emerged victorious with a final score of 87-74. While the win advances the team to the quarterfinals, the game proved to be a more challenging affair than many had anticipated. Here’s a detailed recap of how this matchup unfolded, highlighting key performances and pivotal moments.
A Test of Grit and Strategy
From the opening tip-off, Belgium displayed an intensity and physicality that shocked observers. The European squad came out with a clear game plan: to disrupt the Americans' rhythm by applying pressure and forcing turnovers. It was evident that their strategy was to exploit any weaknesses in the USA's ball-handling, placing significant emphasis on roughing up star players like A'ja Wilson.
Belgium’s defensive efforts initially paid dividends, as the Americans struggled to find their offensive groove, particularly in the first half. The turnovers—often a result of tight defense—were a major contributor to the game being tighter than expected. However, the depth of the US roster quickly became a key factor.
Dynamic Duo: Wilson and Stewart
The star pairing of A'ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart proved to be a formidable force on the court. With back-to-back 20-point games, the pair combined for an impressive 49 points, representing more than half of the USA's total scoring. Wilson’s strength in the paint and Stewart’s versatility allowed them to exploit mismatches against a Belgian defense that seemed determined to focus its efforts on limiting their effectiveness.
In the first half, Stewart was particularly active, leading the charge with 15 points. As the game progressed into the second half, both players began to figure out how to navigate the heavy defense and capitalize on transition opportunities. Their ability to score under pressure was crucial in keeping the scoreline in the USA's favor.
Belgium’s Bright Spots
Despite the eventual loss, Belgium had its shining star in Emma Meesseman, who demonstrated a one-woman show of scoring prowess. The 2019 WNBA MVP delivered an outstanding performance, dropping 24 points while shooting 11 of 19 from the floor. Her ability to create space and maintain offensive pressure kept Belgium within striking distance throughout the game.
Meesseman’s shooting from mid-range and her aggressive style forced the Americans to adjust defensively, showcasing the strength of Belgium as a competitive force on the international stage. Even as other players struggled for scoring consistency, Meesseman remained a reliable option for her team.
Depth and Transition Game Shine
One of the most notable advantages the USA had over Belgium was its depth. Players like Alyssa Thomas, Kelsey Plum, and Sabrina Ionescu stepped up when called upon, contributing vital minutes and energy to the team. Their ability to maintain intensity on both ends of the floor allowed the USA to push back against any comeback attempts from Belgium.
The game shifted in the second half as the Americans began to capitalize on transition opportunities, scoring swiftly and efficiently. This uptick in pace helped alleviate some of the pressure Belgium had applied throughout the first half. By knocking down key outside shots, the USA opened up the lane for easy baskets, which ultimately wore down the Belgian defense.
Conclusion: A Step Forward
As the game wore on, it became clear that Belgium’s earlier efforts began to take their toll. Fatigue set in, and the Americans seized the opportunity, closing the game strong to secure their 57th consecutive win. The victory not only solidified their position in the quarterfinals but also served as a valuable learning experience.
While the USA women's basketball team will undoubtedly benefit from the win, the close contest against Belgium highlights the competitive nature of international basketball. With formidable opponents like Belgium, the Americans will need to refine their play and minimize turnovers as they advance deeper into the tournament. For now, the challenge posed by Belgium has set the stage for what’s to come in the knockout rounds of the competition, as the USA prepares to defend their title.