The quest for a 3peat at FIBAWWC 2018 is still on for the USA after ensuring there was no fairytale ending for Nigeria in Tenerife. Like the Americans say, It is unto the next one and it is another Cinderella team of the tournament standing in their way, Belgium.
Belgium have defied all bookmakers predictions mauling France and are on the verge of making history. With nothing to lose against a USA team who were less than convincing against Nigeria, Belgium will take their chances to get to the final in their first ever international Basketball competition.
HEAD TO HEAD
Never met at any competition.
KEYS TO WIN
Belgium.
Excellent Outside Scoring : Belgium is one of the most efficient 3 points shooting teams in Spain with 34.3% accuracy, though USA shoots a slightly higher percentage, Hanne Mestdagh, Antonia Delaere and Julie Valoo will need their snipe shots accurate in the semifinals
USA:
Bench Depth: The depth of experience and combination of youth in the American squad is second to none in Tenerife.
Breanna Stewart , A’ja Wilson, Tina Charles, Brittany Griner, Nneka Ogwumike, Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird have all been in positions like this before either at NCAA or WNBA level, the experience will count for everything. And coach Staley will be comfortable knowing this.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Belgium: Emma Messeman – 16 points per game, 12.3 rebounds per game.
Hanne Mestdag – 17.5 Points per game, 4.8 rebounds per game 3 assists per game
USA:
Breanna Stewart 17 Points per game, 5.8 rebounds.
Tina Charles – 12points per game , 8.3 assists per game.
PREDICTION
USA Win.
Written by Femi Adefeso. Twitter: @IncredibleFemi
