Opals Struggle in Semi-Finals, Eyes on Bronze Medal

Things didn’t go as planned for the Opals as they faced off against the USA in the semi-finals. With only a minute to go in the first half, the Australian team found themselves trailing 43-24, struggling to connect on plays.

Sami Whitcomb made an attempt to set up Kristy Wallace with a quick pass during a fast break, but it turned out to be slightly off. Wallace fumbled with the ball before rushing to Ezi Magbegor, who was open under the basket. Unfortunately, Magbegor couldn’t make it happen and lost possession when trying to shoot before securing the ball.

Head coach Sandy Brondello was clearly frustrated after the game, talking about the importance of controlling the ball. “We’ve talked about the possession game; it’s been so critical for us,” she said. The stats painted a grim picture, with the Americans leading in points in the paint, fast breaks, and points off turnovers.

Cayla George noted that the team took too long to settle and allowed the USA to play to their strengths. “The lead just kept growing,” she admitted. Normally, the Opals carry a level of confidence against any opponent, but this match was clearly different. With that loss, they were headed to a bronze medal game against either France or Belgium.

<p“The USA has some of the best players in the world,” Brondello continued. “We needed to play a perfect game today.” She mentioned feeling disappointed but also acknowledged the tough competition they faced.

As the team headed to the locker room, the disappointment was palpable. It was a stark contrast to the heartbreak they faced two years earlier when they lost to China in a nail-biter. Brondello recalled that loss; she couldn’t even sleep after it. “I think it will be easier to park this one,” she reflected, noting that they were down by 20 points at halftime this time.

One potential concern for the upcoming game is the health of Steph Talbot. She played less than 11 minutes in the semi-final and had discussions with medical staff during the game. Brondello hinted at uncertainty about Talbot’s availability for the bronze medal match, saying, “She’s not 100% healthy. If she can, she’ll get out there and play.”

With the departure of star player Rebecca Allen due to a hamstring injury, the Opals’ roster is already under pressure. It’s been a tumultuous journey in France for the team, but there’s a sense they will need to dig deep to clinch a medal, something they haven’t done since 2012.

“For me, I’m ready to play again tomorrow morning,” George said confidently, looking ahead to the bronze medal match. “Whoever we face, we’ll be ready to bounce back. We’re a resilient mob.”