Taurasi scores 26, helps US reach World Cup gold-medal game
SAN CRISTOBAL DE LA LAGUNA, Spain (AP) – Diana Taurasi scored 26 points, including hitting five 3-pointers, to help the U.S. beat Belgium 93-77 on Saturday in the semifinals of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
Breanna Stewart added 20 points while Brittney Griner had 16 for the Americans, who will be trying to win a third straight gold medal at the worlds – something the country has never done.
The U.S., which has won 21 consecutive World Cup games, will play Australia or Spain for the title Sunday.
Belgium, making its first appearance in the World Cup, hung around for the first 25 minutes behind the stellar play of Emma Meesseman and some solid outside shooting. The game was tied at 52 midway through the third quarter before the U.S. closed the period with a 21-5 run.
Brittney Griner of the United States Team fights a ball against Belgian defender during the Women’s basketball World Cup semi final match between Belgium and the U.S.A. in Tenerife, Spain, Saturday Sept. 29, 2018. (AP Photo Andres Gutierrez)
Belgian presentation during the Women’s basketball World Cup semi final match between Belgium and the U.S.A. in Tenerife, Spain, Saturday Sept. 29, 2018. (AP Photo Andres Gutierrez)
Fans show support for Belgium during the Women’s basketball World Cup semi final match between Belgium and the U.S.A. in Tenerife, Spain, Saturday Sept. 29, 2018. (AP Photo Andres Gutierrez)
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