France overpower South Korea after slow start at women's Basketball World Cup

France did not find its rhythm immediately, but once its defense clicked, South Korea could not keep up. The French team won 95-69 in Berlin for its second game at the Women's Basketball World Cup and secured a place in the quarterfinals.

Marine Johannes led France with 17 points, while Gabby Williams and Dominique Malonga scored 14 each. Carle Leite added 11. The result followed France's opening 99-53 victory over Hungary.

South Korea started sharply, taking early leads of 5-0 and 10-5. Heo and her teammates caused problems from long range, and South Korea led 31-24 at the end of the first quarter. France responded with a 14-0 run, fueled by Johannes, and went into halftime ahead 43-37.

The turning point came after the break. France played with greater defensive intensity, forced turnovers and used its size and athletic advantage. Johannes had scored 14 points in 10 minutes and made three of five three-point attempts in the first half. France shot 52 percent overall and 7 of 15 from outside.

France won the third quarter 33-15 and led by 24 points, after building a 28-point advantage. South Korea briefly reduced the gap in the final period, but France restored control. Johannes continued her outstanding shooting before leaving the court. France will face Nigeria on Monday at 2:30 p.m.

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I saw a real team tonight.