ESP/NZL – Sanchez, Spain cut down Tall Ferns on day two of women’s hoops

BEIJING (Olympics) – Spain started strong and finished even stronger in an 85-62 triumph over New Zealand on day two of the women’s basketball tournament at the Olympics.

Isa Sanchez scored 11 of her team-high 19 points in the first half when Spain took control.

Evaristo Perez’s team, narrowly defeated by hosts China on the opening day, built a 40-27 lead by half-time.

The Kiwis managed to reduce the deficit to eight points on three occasions in the third quarter but Spain were never under serious threat.

 “I thought Spain came out and played really well, especially in the first quarter,” said Jillian Harmon, who had a game-high 22 points for New Zealand.

“They are a really good team and we couldn’t afford to fall behind.  Now we face China (on Wednesday), the host nation.

“This place is going to be packed. We just want to come out and get a win.”

Alba Torrens, the rising Spanish star who led the team with 18 points in their loss to the Chinese, scored nine in 24 minutes against the Tall Ferns.

“We were able to start strong and to remain in control of the game,” Torrens said.

“When you lead, it’s much easier to play the game.”
New Zealand’s defense disappeared over the final 10 minutes with last year’s EuroBasket silver medalists outscoring them 25-15 over the last 10 minutes.

The Tall Ferns beat Mali in their opener and are now 1-1.

“We are very happy to have gotten our first win but now,” Torrens added.

“Just as two days ago, though, we have to concentrate on the Czech Republic.

“They are a team we know well as faced them in the preparations.”

FIBA