There’s good news and bad news for the U.S Women’s World Cup team

The United States Women's World Cup basketball team pulled off a narrow 55-52 victory over Italy in their second Group Play match, securing one of two direct spots in the quarterfinals. However, despite claiming a spot in the next round, the U.S. team's performance against the Italian side was lackluster, particularly on the offensive end.

With a 29% field goal percentage and 14 turnovers to 11 assists, the U.S. displayed significant struggles throughout the game. Only Jackie Young, who contributed 10 points, 3 assists, and was the lone player with more than two field goals, managed to stand out among the roster. Other key players like Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, and Kahleah Copper failed to inspire, shooting poorly and limiting their contributions.

The U.S. missed all ten of their first three-point attempts and trailed by two points with just 4:28 minutes left, making their survival in doubt. Nonetheless, a critical charge by Gray and key buckets from Stewart, Gray, and Young in the closing minutes secured the win. Despite the narrow victory, the team's low-scoring performance against Italy — their worst since 1971 — highlights the need for improvement, especially as they prepare for single-elimination play against formidable opponents like France, Australia, and Spain.

The absence of star players A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum, who were ruled out with injuries, further raises concerns about the U.S. team's dominance on the international stage.