USA - Hosts to take on neighbours in final

COLORADO SPRINGS (FIBA Americas U18 Championship for Women) - Canada and the Unites States will meet in the final of the Under-18 FIBA Americas Championship for Women.

The US cruised to an 81-47 win over Argentina on Saturday night as Khadijah Rushdan top-scored with 14 points. Italee Lucas and Stefanie Gilbreath also contributed 11 points apiece.

Despite the comfortable victory, USA head coach Doug Bruno believes there is still room for improvement.

"Last night it was missed lay-ups and tonight it was turnovers which cost us," he said.

"Tonight we had a 36-turnover basketball game. We have to finish and eliminate the turnovers. Our offense is such a work in progress."

Canada booked their place in the final after a thrilling 59-55 win over Brazil. Canada dominated the first half with a strong mix of pressure defence and a solid offensive game-plan.

The roles were then reversed as Brazil utilised a full-court press to convert turnovers, but Canada managed to edge a tight contest.

"They're so big, tall and athletic, and they were very aggressive in guarding us," said Canada coach Christine Stapleton.

"They went to a 3-2 zone defence and we just forgot to look to attack. When we did look to attack, I thought we got some real nice inside looks, but we just didn't finish them."

Kendel Ross top-scored with 19 points and 12 rebounds for Canada, while Kelsey Adrian added 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Canada will meet the United States on Sunday night, after the bronze medal play-off between South American pair Argentina and Brazil.

PA Sport
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