TOULOUSE (FIBA women’s world championship -17 years) – In the classification match between Japan and Australia, it was the Japanese, despite their inferiority in size, who won 95-92, in the money time, after a game full of twists and turns.
It was Nagaoka who set the tone at the start of the match, with shots and counter-attacks which allowed Japan to lead 12-4. But Australia reacts, using their strong point: their interior game (15-12). Very skilled at outside shooting, the Japanese then took a comfortable lead before the second quarter thanks to three winning shots from the untenable Nagaoka (23pts) (34-26 then 44-32). Australia will come back before half time, with penetrations into the racket (48-46) and will even get back in front thanks to Blicavs (19pts) and Mijovic (16pts), very fit. (54-59)
Returning from the locker room, Australia lost its rhythm, clumsy on shots and letting the Japanese shoot, who regained the advantage thanks to Miyazawa (30pts). (72-68). Faster, more skillful, the Japanese consolidated a good lead before the last act. (80-73). The end of the match will be closer, the Australians regaining momentum with Tippett, (34pts) who is everywhere, ensuring rebounds and shoots and Mijovic, always in the right shots (87-88). In the money time, it was ultimately the Japanese who won, by three small points, to the great dismay of the Australians. (95-92)
Best scorer: Gretel Tippett (Aus) 34 pts
Best rebounder: Gretel Tippett (Aus) 16rbs
Post-match reactions:
Peter LONERGAN (Australia Coach): We fought to contain their speed and skill. They played really well and had an excellent 3-point percentage. I have to give them credit for that. I’m very disappointed for Tipett who scored 34 points in 31 minutes. She was a fighter and a leader and it was an honor and privilege to coach her. I feel sorry for her because she deserved better. Better from her teammates, and better from me.
Shinichiro HAYASHI(Japan Coach): We were able to count on a very good shooting percentage and a lot of speed to win today
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