Hosts France cruise past Cuba in opener

NANTES (2016 FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament) - Cuba struggled to cope with hosts France's fast-paced game and as a result lost 83-67 in the first game of the 2016 FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament (WOQT) Group A on Monday. 

Playing in front of an almost sellout crowd, France imposed excellent ball movement to lead the contest from start to finish.

Turning Point: It was one-way traffic as France's relentless fast-breaking disrupted Cuba's defense. Two timely three-pointers in the second quarter from backup guards Olivia Epoupa and Marine Johannes lifted France to a 50-29 half-time advantage.  

Stats Don't Lie: France's bench provided a major spark, outscoring Cuba's 18-5 in the first 20 minutes. But more impressive was France's success from the charity stripe where they made all 11 of their attempts.  

Game Hero:  Endy Miyem was flawless, connecting on 6 of 6 field goals to lead France with 14 points at half-time. The 1.88m forward went on to finish with a game-best 19 points. 

The Bottom Line: Cuba stepped on the floor looking to cause the biggest upset in the tournament, but that was never the case as France, inspired by local fans who cheered every play their heroes made, dominated throughout. The win is a real statement of France's Olympic aspirations.  

FIBA