Italy’s Cecilia Zandalasini slammed by Team USA fans after blatant ‘flop’ in FIBA World Cup game

Team USA fans have publicly criticized Italy's star forward Cecilia Zandalasini following an incident during a recent FIBA World Cup game, with many accusing her of committing a blatant "flop". The incident occurred while Zandalasini was shooting from the perimeter, when she recoiled immediately after releasing the ball, grabbed her eye and began arguing with the referees for a foul.

Despite the context of events leading up to the play being unclear, fans quickly condemned Zandalasini for what they deemed as an over-the-top flopping attempt. Some fans drew comparisons to Natalie Nakase, a known flopper in the WNBA, and even blamed the Valkyries' coaching style for the flop. However, some supporters argued that Zandalasini had been poked in the eye by another player's hair before the video began, and that her subsequent protests were a genuine attempt to receive a call.

Regardless, Zandalasini's performance in the game remains her best statistical contribution as she led all scorers with 14 points. The 30-year-old forward averaged 8.8 points and 2.2 rebounds this season, and was the focal point of the USA defense. Italy's loss to Team USA marked a historic upset, as the USA maintained their 20-year winning streak in the women's World Cup.

Zandalasini's reaction during the flop incident has sparked debate on social media, but her contributions to both her national team and the WNBA will certainly continue.