AUS - Opals earn comeback victory over Hungary

PARIS (Friendly Games) - Australia’s women’s basketball team, the Opals defeated Hungary 84-80 this morning at the Euroesonne Tournament in Paris.

Down 26-10 after one quarter and 42-37 at half time, the Opals turned around the match with a 21-9 third quarter fight back to set up a thrilling final quarter.

Marianna Tolo top scored for Australia with a game high 19 points and received good support from Abby Bishop and Jenna O’Hea who added 11 and 10 points respectively.

But it was Canberra Capitals point guard Natalie Hurst who came through in the clutch, converting 9-of-10 free throws in the final minutes to secure victory for Australia on her first tour with the Opals.

Anna Vida had 16 points to lead Hungary, who could not contain Australia on the boards and lost the rebound tally 22-43.

The Opals will play France tomorrow morning Australian time to decide the winner of the round robin tournament.

Australia will need to curb their excessive turnover rate to secure victory, with a 28-16 count against them nearly costing them the game against Hungary this morning.

Basketball Australia