Episode
Recap: Team USA Survives Italy Scare, Clinches Quarterfinal Spot Despite Ugly Performance
- Published
- Sep 6, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 949
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Summary
Team USA survived a major scare from Italy, escaping with a 55-52 win to clinch a spot in the FIBA Women’s World Cup quarterfinals in Berlin. Very little went right for the Americans. They blew a double-digit first-half lead, were outscored 16-11 in the second quarter and shot just 28.6% from the field — including 1 of 12 from 3-point range. Team USA also committed 14 turnovers against just 16 made field goals and missed too many chances around the rim. Italy played with urgency, confidence and nothing to lose, pushing the U.S. all the way to the finish. Jackie Young was the only American in double figures with 10 points, while Aliyah Boston added six points and three rebounds and helped close out the win. In my postgame recap, I break down what went wrong, why Italy caused so many problems and what Team USA needs to fix before the quarterfinals. But up next, they face Czechia at 2:45 p.m. ET on Monday. ----- Follow Scott on Twitter and Instagram , and read his work on fieldhousefiles.com .