Spain Prepares for Paris Olympics with Strong Showing Against Australia
In the final preparations for the Paris Olympic Games, the Spanish women’s basketball team has been working hard to fine-tune their skills. Despite a disappointing loss to Belgium at home, the team bounced back with a strong showing against Australia, ultimately falling short by nine points, 66-75.
Spanish Struggle with Field Goal Shooting
Spain struggled from the field, converting just 18 of 52 attempts (34.6%) and 9 of 21 from three-point range (42.9%). Despite this, the team’s late surge, led by Gustafson’s 18 points, three rebounds, and one assist, kept them in the game until the final minutes.
Gustafson and Rodriguez Lead Spanish Attack
Alba Torrens and Gustafson led the Spanish attack in the first quarter, followed by successful shots from Whitcomb and Smith, tying the game 16-18. However, Australia’s Whitcomb led her team to a 14-point advantage, 30-42, at halftime.
Third Quarter Woes
Spain lost their momentum in the third quarter, failing to score outside of free throws, which resulted in a 43-64, their largest deficit of the game. A late triple by Cazorla only added to Australia’s lead, which Spain was unable to overcome.
Spanish Reaction in the Final Quarter
With 14 unanswered points, Spain made a strong push to come back, with Gustafson scoring five consecutive points, bringing them within three points, 66-69. Despite their efforts, Australia’s Kristy Wallace extinguished any hope of a comeback, scoring four consecutive points, securing the win for Australia.
Canada Awaits as Final Preparation
Before heading to Paris for the official games, Spain will play their last preparation match against Canada this Wednesday, just before facing China on Sunday, July 28. With two victories against Turkey and China, and two defeats against Belgium and Australia, the team will look to rebound with a strong showing against Canada.
Group Standings
Spain will face Puerto Rico and Serbia in their group in the Paris Olympic Games.
