In what can only be described as the Olympic equivalent of “Groundhog Day,” Team USA is once again on the brink of gold, this time by taking on their favorite sparring partner, Australia. The semifinal clash at Bercy Arena might be as predictable as the sunrise, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less juicy.
The Americans, on their relentless quest for an eighth consecutive gold medal—because anything less would clearly be an embarrassment—cruised past Nigeria in the quarterfinals. It was the kind of performance that screams, “Yeah, we’re still that good.” A’ja Wilson flexed her muscles with a casual 20-point, 11-rebound double-double, while Brittney Griner, in classic Griner fashion, came off the bench to add 11 points, because why not?
Now, enter Australia. The Opals punched their ticket to this round by dismantling Serbia, 85-67, with Alanna Smith leading the charge like she was auditioning for a superhero movie—22 points, 13 rebounds, and probably a few Serbian tears. Jade Melbourne and Cayla George chipped in 18 points each, just to make sure no one accused them of not pulling their weight.
But here’s the kicker: these two teams know each other better than most in-laws. Team USA has been Australia’s personal tormentor, handing them losses in three straight gold medal games (2000, 2004, 2008). The Opals might be hoping to rewrite the script, but let’s be real—Team USA isn’t exactly known for generosity on the court.
The big question is, can Australia finally break the curse, or are they just another chapter in Team USA’s ever-expanding book of Olympic dominance? We’ll find out when the ball tips at 11:30 a.m. ET.
How to Watch:
For those looking to watch history repeat itself (or be made, depending on your optimism), the game will be aired nationally on NBC. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to stream, Peacock and Fubo have you covered—because who doesn’t love a good streaming service free trial?
USA Women’s Basketball: The Undefeated Train So Far
In case you’ve missed the action (or just love seeing the scores flash by), here’s a quick recap of Team USA’s road to the semifinals:
- July 29: USA 102, Japan 76
- August 1: USA 87, Belgium 74
- August 4: USA 87, Germany 68
- August 7: USA 88, Nigeria 74
And now, August 9 looms large for Australia. No pressure, though.
Team USA Roster:
The American squad is basically a who’s who of basketball royalty:
- Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx)
- Kahleah Copper (Phoenix Mercury)
- Chelsea Gray (Las Vegas Aces)
- Brittney Griner (Phoenix Mercury)
- Sabrina Ionescu (New York Liberty)
- Jewell Loyd (Seattle Storm)
- Kelsey Plum (Las Vegas Aces)
- Breanna Stewart (New York Liberty)
- Diana Taurasi (Phoenix Mercury)
- Alyssa Thomas (Connecticut Sun)
- A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces)
- Jackie Young (Las Vegas Aces)
Coached by the legendary Cheryl Reeve, along with assistants Mike Thibault, Kara Lawson, and Joni Taylor, this team is as stacked as they come.
So, grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show. Will it be another American victory lap, or can Australia finally flip the script? One thing’s for sure: it’s going to be one heck of a game.
