BRNO (Czechia) - Australian pair Olivia Olechnowicz and Smith put their quick hands to use on opening day of the FIBA U17 Women#'s Basktball World Cup 2026 to set a new game-high steals record for their country.
Olivia Olechnowicz helped Australia to shut down Lativa with some great defensive work
The previous best in the competition was 6 back by Abigail Wehrung in Amsterdam back in 2012, but Olechnowicz and Smith grabbed 7 apeice as the Sapphires opened up with a 76-65 Group A success against Latvia.
Smith also did great defensive work for her country on opening day
Their tally was also just one short of equalling the all-time competition high of 8 steals.
Australia are one of the podium frontrunners and will need all their defensive qualities in their next game when they face defending champions and favorites, USA.
FIBA