United States look to regain their rhythm against the Czech Republic after scare against Italy

The United States secured first place in Group D by beating Italy 55-52, but the narrow victory left the title candidates needing to recover their rhythm. Their final group game against the Czech Republic will not affect the standings, yet it carries clear emotional importance for Team USA.

Kara Lawson’s team had looked dominant in its opening game, beating China 94-61. Against Italy, however, the Americans found themselves under pressure from a relentless defense and struggled to produce their usual shooting numbers. They made 15 of 44 two-point attempts and just one of 12 from three-point range.

The Czech Republic enters the game with no chance of advancing after losing to Italy and China, the latter defeat coming in overtime. Veronica Vorackova of Casademont Zaragoza has been the Czech team’s leading performer, averaging 13.5 points, six rebounds and a 16.5 rating across its two games.

With the group stage closing, the United States needs the matchup to build confidence before the knockout rounds. The Americans will then rest until Thursday, when they are scheduled to play in the final slot of the day against Belgium, Australia, Germany, Spain, Japan or Mali.