As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, the United States women’s national basketball team is gearing up to continue their dominant streak. With the opening ceremonies set for July 26, Team USA will look to secure their eighth consecutive gold medal in women’s basketball.
Team USA Roster Highlights
- A’ja Wilson: A key player, Wilson will be a central figure for Team USA.
- Breanna Stewart: Another major asset, Stewart brings experience and skill.
- Diana Taurasi: Returning for her sixth Olympics, Taurasi is a veteran presence on the team.
Despite high expectations and a roster brimming with talent, WNBA rookie sensation Caitlin Clark did not make the team, as the selection committee chose to go with experienced veterans.
Team USA Schedule
Group Stage (Lille):
- July 29: Team USA vs. Japan, 3 p.m. ET (NBC)
- Aug. 1: Team USA vs. Belgium, 3 p.m. ET (NBC)
- Aug. 4: Team USA vs. Germany, 11:15 a.m. ET (NBC)
Knockout Stage (Paris):
- Quarterfinals: Aug. 7, Team USA vs. TBD, TBD (NBC)
- Semifinals: Aug. 9, Team USA vs. TBD, TBD (NBC)
- Gold Medal Game: Aug. 11, Team USA vs. TBD, TBD (NBC)
Team USA Outlook
The American women’s team has been unbeatable in major international tournaments since 2006 and has not lost an Olympic game since 1992. They remain the heavy favorites to secure the gold medal once again.
The team’s limited preparation time—two exhibition games—will not overshadow their talent advantage. With a roster including four Las Vegas Aces, three Phoenix Mercury stars, and two New York Liberty teammates, cohesion should develop quickly.
In the group stage, Team USA will face Japan, Belgium, and Germany. Japan, their opponent in the Tokyo 2020 gold medal game, Belgium, and Germany, with players like the Sabally sisters, present solid challenges.
Looking ahead to the knockout rounds, the primary threat could be Australia, with stars like Ezi Magbegor, Alanna Smith, and Lauren Jackson posing significant competition.
Team USA’s quest for another gold medal will be one of the most watched events of the 2024 Paris Olympics, as they strive to extend their unparalleled streak in women’s basketball.
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