The United States women’s basketball team continued their dominance at the Paris Olympics, defeating Nigeria 88-74 to reach the semi-finals. Aja Wilson led the way with a game-high 20 points, as the USA asserted their dominance from the start.
Nigeria, who made history by becoming the first African side to reach the quarter-finals, trailed by nine points at the end of the first quarter. The deficit grew to 19 by halftime, and the USA pulled away in the third quarter, opening a 28-point advantage.
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Despite a valiant effort from Nigeria, the USA wrapped up a comfortable victory, setting up a semi-final showdown with Australia on Friday. The winner will advance to the gold-medal final, with the USA seeking their eighth consecutive Olympic title.
In other quarter-final action, Australia defeated Serbia 85-67, while hosts France beat Germany 84-71, and Belgium upset Spain 79-66. France and Belgium will meet in the other semi-final, with the winners advancing to the gold-medal final.
The USA has won nine of the 12 gold medals since women’s basketball debuted at the Olympics in 1976. They will look to continue their dominance against Australia, who are seeking their first Olympic title.
Nigeria’s historic run came to an end, but they can hold their heads high after becoming the first African team to reach the quarter-finals. Their victory over Canada in the group stage will be remembered as a milestone moment for African basketball.
The semi-finals will be played on Friday, with the winners advancing to the gold-medal final on Sunday. The losers will compete for the bronze medal.
