Paris 2024: USA start title defence with the win over Tokyo runner-ups

USA - Japan 102-76

USA started title defence with the win over Japan 102-76 that clinched silver during last Olympic Games. In 2021 USA secured 7th straight Olympic gold medal beating ambitious Japan 90-75.
The reigning champions opened the game with a 22-15 run and led 11 points at the halftime. They added a massive 29-18 rally in the third quarter and closed the game with a final 23-19 run.
A'Ja Wilson (193-C-1996, college: S.Carolina) stepped up with 24 points and 13 rebounds, Breanna Stewart (193-F-1994, college: UConn) netted 22, whilst Kelsey Plum (173-PG-1994, college: Washington), Sabrina Ionescu (180-PG-1997, college: Oregon) and Brittney Griner (206-C-1990, college: Baylor) added 11 each. Maki Takada (185-C-1989) replied with 24 points in the losing effort.