France Storms Into FIBA World Cup Semifinals
France, the United States, and host Germany have advanced to the FIBA World Cup semifinals, with Germany making history by defeating Belgium for the first time. The bracket is now set with the USA facing Spain and Germany meeting France, while France's historic run continues despite concerns over a knee injury to key player Janelle Salaün.
GN sports/basketball (en-US) confirms the semifinal pairings, with the United States set to face Spain after their 89-66 victory over Australia, while France secures their spot by routing China 90-61. The report also highlights that Seattle Storm rookie Awa Fam contributed to Spain's win, whereas teammate Ezi Magbegor suffered a season-ending ACL injury for Australia.
Source: GN sports/basketball (en-US)According to GN sports/basketball (en-US), Germany head coach Olaf Lange described Thursday's 93-74 victory over Belgium as the 'best day in German basketball,' highlighting the surge in local fan engagement and the inspiration it provides to the next generation of players ahead of Saturday's semifinal clash with France.
Source: GN sports/basketball (en-US)Yahoo Sports reports that Germany's historic 93-74 victory over Belgium was fueled by a raucous home crowd in Berlin, with Leonie Fiebich and Nyara Sabally both recording double-doubles to secure the host nation's first-ever semifinal appearance. Meanwhile, France’s dominant 90-61 rout of China was highlighted by a team-record 22 three-pointers in a previous game and a stifling defense that held star Zhang Ziyu to just seven points.
Source: Yahoo SportsYahoo Sports reports that teenage Chinese phenom Zhang Ziyu, described by her coach as a 'once-in-a-century talent,' was limited to just seven points in the loss, with experts noting she still needs to develop her court movement despite her 2.23m stature. Meanwhile, Germany’s historic semifinal run was headlined by Leonie Fiebich’s 17-point performance in front of a crowd that included Dirk Nowitzki.
Source: Yahoo SportsYahoo Sports reports that host nation Germany has upset European champions Belgium 93-74 to secure the final spot in the semifinals, setting up a matchup against France on Saturday. The victory marks the sixth consecutive World Cup where the host country has advanced to the last four.
Source: Yahoo SportsAccording to GN sports/basketball (en-US), the United States has also advanced to the Women's Basketball World Cup semifinals after a decisive 108-56 victory over Hungary, featuring strong performances from Napheesa Collier and Caitlin Clark.
Source: GN sports/basketball (en-US)In Berlin, France secured a historic semifinal berth with a commanding victory over China, achieving a final-four appearance for the first time since 1953.
Source: Yahoo Sports
