Unbeaten USA defend title with repeat triumph over Australia

DEBRECEN (Hungary) - The United States celebrated another FIBA U19 Women's World Cup title by defeating Australia in Sunday's Final.

The USA added to their extensive haul of gold medals in the competition with a 70-52 victory over the Gems, who had to settle for a second consecutive runners-up finish.

Turning point: Australia scored the first five points of the game before the USA settled in. The Americans closed the opening quarter with a 7-0 run, capped by Diamond Johnson beating the buzzer from three. Another 18-14 quarter followed as the lead doubled to eight points and USA soon pulled clear with a 19-10 third quarter.

Game heroes: Diamond Johnson top-scored with 15 points as one of several solid contributions. Caitlin Clark added a 9-8-8 stat-line and Lauren Betts pulled down 14 rebounds to go with 9 points.

Stats don't lie: The shooting percentages were similar for both as defenses excelled once again, but the USA had 16 extra shots which made a huge difference, courtesy of winning the rebounding battle 53-34 whilst keeping their turnovers in single figures.

Bottom line: Another perfect week for the Americans as they successfully defended their title with a run of nine titles in the last 11 tournaments. Australia fought hard but were unable to stay with their opponents throughout - although it was an improved display from their 40-point loss in the Group Phase.

FIBA