Unbeaten USA battle past ROC in blockbuster women's 3x3 Olympic clash

TOKYO (Japan) - USA fought off a determined challenge from Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) to record a 20-16 victory and remain unbeaten in a top of the table clash in women's 3x3 Olympic action.  

USA came out cold and trailed for most of the blockbuster contest before they rediscovered their best in the clutch.

The gold medal favorite had been unchallenged in their opening three games before being made to work against a gritty ROC. 

Even though they are seeded No.2, ROC weren't as favored as others but had made a statement with three straight victories to start their Olympic campaign before running out of steam against USA. 

Logunova starts hot

Anastasiia Logunova was a late starter in the earlier game against Mongolia but she was ready to go here with 3 quick points as a slick ROC stormed out to a 5-2 lead. 

USA looked uncharacteristically out of sorts with just 3 points in the opening three minutes before Kelsey Plum hit a two-piece to break the shackles. 

Gray's block party

ROC were doing nearly the impossible and locking up this star-studded USA team. But they couldn't power ahead largely due to brilliant defending from Allisha Gray, who protected the rim superbly through eye-catching athleticism. 

The Moment

USA looked in big trouble down 14-11 but  Gray was irresistible and her standout game continued with a tough step back from the corner to beat the shot clock and give her team the lead. 

Their momentum then overwhelmed a brave ROC. 

The Hero

With Plum struggling from two, Gray stepped up with a brilliant all-round performance to finish with 8 points, 3 blocks and 6 highlights.  

FIBA