USA Women’s Basketball Caps Pool Play with 105-64 Rout of Czechia

The United States women’s national team defeated Czechia 105-64, extending its tournament winning streak to 33 games—the longest run since a semifinal loss to Russia in the 2006 World Cup. The Americans built a 57-33 halftime lead and stretched the margin to more than 40 points in the second half, leaving the Czechs winless in pool play.

ESPN

The victory followed a low-scoring outing against Italy, where the U.S. managed only 30 points in the first half and recorded its worst offensive performance in 50 years, with star forward Breanna Stewart missing her first eight shots. Stewart rebounded quickly, scoring 19 points on 8-of-11 shooting, adding seven rebounds and six assists in just 17 minutes. Napheesa Collier contributed 12 points, seven of which came in the second quarter, helping the team regain its aggressive tempo.

ESPN

Stewart emphasized personal leadership, saying she wanted to improve and set an example for teammates. She also noted the importance of confidence in executing plays and applying pressure on the rim. Collier expressed dissatisfaction with the prior game’s effort and stressed a renewed mindset of aggression and hard work. Head coach Kara Lawson highlighted the need to remind her veterans of their capabilities between the two matches, underscoring the team’s quick adjustment.

ESPN

• “I just wanted to be better. I just wanted to really lead by example,” — Breanna Stewart

ESPN

• “I knew the ball had to go in the basket for me, like come on,” — Breanna Stewart

ESPN

• “We weren't happy with our performance yesterday, really on either side,” — Napheesa Collier

ESPN

The United States advances to the quarterfinals, where it will face the winner of the Hungary-Japan matchup scheduled for Tuesday. The team aims to carry its renewed aggression and confidence into the knockout round.

ESPN