Semi-Final Recaps

Today is gonna be the day that they're gonna throw it back to you
By now you should've somehow realized what you gotta do

When I got to the arena, I was treated to a thrilling finish to the Czech Republic versus France game. Down by 2 points, Klimesova, the starting power forward for Czech Republic, was fouled with 0.9 seconds left in overtime. She proceeded to miss the first free throw and inexplicably make the second, ruining the Czech's chances to tie the game and take it to second overtime. As it was, France prevailed and was to face Lithuania in the 5th place game.
15 minutes prior to tipoff of the semi-final game between Brazil and Australia, two tall women walk right in front of me and get settled in the next row down from where I was sitting. I immediately recognized my former college teammates and we were all ecstatic to be sitting together for such a great event. My friend Helô, diehard Liberty fan that she is, promptly noticed my Liberty backpack and we all shared a laugh when I remembered she used to practice with Liberty game shorts that would've looked big on Tamika Whitmore. She got a Liberty bandanna from one of the Crazy Americans and soon after that, she had one cup of beer in each hand. Ode to the good ole times when we were the champs. Good thing I didn't get beer sprayed all over me this time.
Now back to the real game, the Opals took the court to thunderous boos, but they weren't about to be intimidated. The arena wasn't entirely full by the time the Brazilians came out of the tunnel (hate latecomers), but the noise and general hysteria were there as usual.
Brazil again started out the game attacking the basket with Iziane and Alessandra, working well inside and limiting Lauren Jackson's touches. Nevermind that LJ didn't have a great game against us; it was Penny Taylor who killed Brazil the first time. So AC Barbosa starts the game with a man-to-man and Janeth freaking Arcain on Penny Taylor. 37-year old Arcain, tired legs, sprained ankle and all, running around trying to guard the taller, stronger, younger, more athletic Taylor (geez, I sound like FFO). Sure enough Penny goes off for 13 points in the first quarter and Janeth is already dog tired. Tired enough to miss all her field goals and be a defensive liability. In the second quarter, Barbosa brought Micaela into the game to guard Taylor and the move yielded results immediately. Taylor struggled to get open and Micaela wasn't falling for screens of death and such. Alessandra shut down LJ and the game seemed in control, with our man-to-man working to perfection. LJ was so frustrated, she got called for a too hard for words intentional foul on Micaela. I'd never seen LJ fluster like that, but the boos were deafening and she turned to the Brazil bench and apologized raising her hand and muttering something.
With LJ and Penny limited to running around trying to receive the ball, Belinda Snell got loose and started knocking down 3-pointers and jumpers. Iziane wasn't really on Snell as much as she should and, par for the course, it took Barbosa long enough to realize that.
Even with that, we managed to keep up with them in the first half, thanks to Micaela, who held Penny Taylor to two points in the second quarter, and Érika who, while too slow to cover LJ on the perimeter, wasn't giving up an inch inside while contributing with her rebounding and overall post presence.
In the third quarter, we started clicking on offense again. Iziane and Êga were scoring on a variety of moves. Alessandra didn't start the third because of a shoulder injury suffered in the first quarter, but once she was in again, she delivered. Save a few dumb turnovers and unforced errors (huh, Érika, hello, don't touch a ball that's all but out of bounds), we were the better team. Until...do I really need to say that Barbosa (again) screwed up? Is the fourth quarter of an elimination game the best time to make experiments, especially when you're up against a better team?
Yeah, I thought so. Up by 7 at the end of the third, our starting lineup in the fourth didn't resemble the one that had gotten us the lead. Cintia was in for Érika and Janeth was in for Micaela. Australia quickly went on a 7-2 run to close the gap and went ahead on an LJ 3-pointer over 5-4 Adriana Moisés Pinto. How's that for a mismatch?
All that in 2 or 3 minutes, it was all a haze, it was so fast. I got completely mad at one specific play. I turned around, stomped my foot on my chair and sat down, head in my hands, crazed look, until I felt hands on my hair, shoulders, and little voices saying "calma, calma, tá tudo bem", which means, "calm down, it'll be ok". I couldn't help but laugh even if I didn't want to. I looked up and there were five little girls surrounding me, trying to calm me down. The least we could was buy them ice cream for putting up with me and my antics.
From that point on it was all downhill for Brazil. LJ got going and there was nothing we could do at that point as we didn't have a good enough/tall enough perimeter defender to cover her. Kristi Harrower moved the ball really well and found LJ and Snell whenever they got open. Brazil was forcing shots on offense and the Opals opened up a double-digit lead in the final minute. Brazil just about gave up when LJ shifted into overdrive toward the end of the game.
A few bad news for the Aussies as Penny Taylor got hit by Iziane in an ugly collision as both were fighting for a loose ball. She apparently had a groin injury and aggravated it. Also, Kristi Harrower tried to go strong to the basket to avoid a meaningless shot clock violation and ended up twisting her ankle. As the Opals celebrated at midcourt, Kristi sat down below the basket crying. The other players didn't realize she was hurt, but everybody was concerned afterwards. Kristi left the court carried by the trainers and didn't participate in the wild celebration that ensued. It was sad to see the fans leaving the arena before the game ended. They had given up on the team, but it was the team who gave up on themselves first. It was even sadder that Janeth played so badly in what was supposed to be her big day. I blame Barbosa for making her do something she's not apt to do. She should have said no, I can't guard Penny Taylor, give me Izi's player, but pride has a way of messing up even the most rational decisions. The Aussies weren't really mad at the insane crowd, so we had to applaud them for outplaying us. As they were entering the player's tunnel, I got up and applauded them. LJ looked up and acknowledged my section. Better leave with a good impression, right?
All that is left now is a futile game against the fallen almighty. That might appeal to the fans as the Americans sped up their way up everybody's shit list after last night, but I expect a blowout of epic proportions. And then I'm curious as to what the Americans' reaction will be. Will they be happy, will they be pissed off at the Brazilians?
My magic horn didn't work this time, but I wasn't done for the day anyway.
Nevertheless, it was so much fun being part of this; I can't begin to describe it. The whole college reunion thing was the icing on the cake. Well, maybe I will write about it.

Today was gonna be the day but they'll never throw it back to you
By now you should've somehow realized what you’re not to do

Semi-Final Previews

Brazil versus Australia:
The former battle of the bodysuits is giving way to the battle of wills. Who wants this title more. Lauren Jackson has shown how much she wants by leading all scorers in the tournament. Brazilians have showed how much they want by packing the arena for every game Brazil played. Now what about the players? If yesterday's game against the Czech was any indication, they want it really bad. The key to this game again will be rebouding. In their previous meeting for the preliminary rounds, Brazil let Australia score too much on second-chances by not taking care of the defensive glass. They can't make the same mistake again. Oh, and did I mention don't ever try that 2-3 zone again, especially when you have Adriana in and she's a foot shorter than Penny Taylor?
Stick with the man-to-man, make sure Alessandra and Érika can take turns guarding LJ, take advantage of your bench. All that tips the balance in favor of Brazil. Helen has to do a better job on Kristi Harrower as she was distributing the game without being bothered by hand-checking and such defensive trickery.
The crowd will be a factor, too. They border on maniacal, but it's always good natured taunting. It's really fun to be there.
On the Aussies' side, they will have to contain the Brazilian wings. Iziane, Janeth and Micaela are quick and can either penetrate or settle for the jumper. I hope they're on because then I'm sure we can do it. Tully, I swear those Violet Crumbles are not damaged goods, so don't be flopping today, k?
Brazil advances.

USA versus Russia:
Maria Stepanova is the only one who can save Russia from the embarrassment of being swept off the floor by the Americans. Without guards capable of exploring the American backcourt's lack of defensive prowess, the Russians' only option is getting the ball to their skilled post players. Again officiating might be a problem. The US is getting away with excessive physical play while the Russians seem to be called for blinking an eye at someone. I surely don't understand that pattern, but I hope it's not at display tonight. We want a clean game, with great plays and both teams are capable of putting on quite a show. If the US can knock down 3-pointers while keeping Stepanova off the boards, this one will be easy.
USA advances.

Quarter-Final Recaps

Russia 60, Spain 56
I want a prize for my priceless predictions, but you didn't need to be a basketball fan to realize where these games were going. Russia and Spain proved what many have said around town. Russia is hiding their game. I hope they can find it before the game against the US. They're going to need it. Badly. After surviving La Furia and the leaks that left the court dangerously wet, the Russians got a much needed shot in the arm just in time to face the US again and this time I hope they have a game plan that doesn't include Svet either as a point guard or a defensive specialist. Yeah, you heard that right. Against Spain they got other players involved on offense even though I still believe dumping the ball to Stepanova in the post should be their only play. Now I can add Shchegoleva's baseline jumper to the list. She was money for the most part, even after she hit her head hard after slipping on one of the many puddles formed on the court after the rain. She nailed two consecutive jumpers from the same spot to secure Russia's place in the semi-finals and held the ball up high as a trophy as the Russians celebrated midcourt.
The place was just warming up for what was to come, the hosts' game versus the Czech Republic. The rain thankfully stopped and the players' safety wasn't at risk for a while. I was half expecting the US would hold out if things had gotten worse.

Game Recap

Boxcores

Brazil 75, Czech Republic 51
Brazil came running onto the court in their warm-up gear like they owned the place, just like the US players do, and I didn't like it, except in this case we really owned the place, unlike the US. Ibirapuera came alive and we knew we were in for a thrilling game. Or maybe not.
Brazil got off to a great start and quickly opened an 8-2 lead while the arena was going nuts with each play. Horns, drums, and general euphoria took over and the team was feeding off the energy from the sold out crowd. It didn't last long though. The Czech found their balance and started hitting their shots. They went on a 4-0 run to tie the first quarter at 19. Then the crowd got on its feet and the team got going again. Brazil went on a furious 16-0 run to open the second quarter, swarming the Czech on defense, scoring in transition, from the perimeter, inside, heck, I swear somebody scored from the bench. Iziane and Érika led the blitz on both ends and I felt good enough to not curse at the refs for a good 5 minutes. A personal record I should say. Well, that didn't last long though as a dubious call on a clean block by Érika led to the Czech scoring their first point of the quarter on a free throw. Their first field goal came at the 5-minute mark and they scored only 6 points from the field after that. A freebie on an attempted 3-pointer by Janeth at the buzzer gave her 3 free throws and Brazil closed the half up by 18 points. Not bad, I'll tell you, not bad at all. If I could hear myself thinking at the arena, I would say we did everything right from the get-go, but we couldn't have done it without Izi and Érika and their defense. It all starts with defense, as the Americans proved last night, and it all ends with defense. The Czech got tired pretty fast and that was one of my premises. They were playing stronger opponents in the earlier stages. They had to be more tired than we were. Janeth played well despite her sprained ankle, but she struggled with her shot up until the fourth quarter. The majority of her points came on free throws, which proves she's smart. Can't buy a tough basket, be aggressive and take it to the hoop and get the easy deuce.
The funniest part was watching the battle of the midgets between Brazil's Adriana Moisés and Czech Republic's Michaela Uhrova. It was like watching kids going at it on the playground. It was cute.
In the end, Barbosa's magic number wasn't really off. We won 75-51. He said we needed to score 80 points to beat the Czech. I still believe we need to score one more point than whoever we're playing, but I get what he's saying now. Let's hope the bateria gets there for the first half this time.
Now on to the Aussies. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oye, Oye, Oye.

Game Recap

Boxcores

Australia 79, France 66
Half the crowd had left after the Brazil game, but many stayed to check (out) the Aussies. Lauren Jackson is probably the most popular player in the tournament this side of Janeth and Iziane. Penny Taylor tries to speak Portuguese with the fans, so that obviously has won her new fans as well. France didn't pose a threat for the steady Opals as they cruised; even though the final score 79-66 was a lot closer than it was throughout the game.
Lauren Jackson once more was the driving force behind the Opals' offense with Penny Taylor doing some damage, too. I was impressed by Hollie Grima and her sunny disposition on a rainy day. She crashed the boards relentlessly, giving the Opals several second chances after missed shots.
I was a little worried that the puddles would start to form again on the court. As if Tully needed another reason to flop like a fish. The Opals rely too much on their two stars and it might come back to haunt them against Brazil as I hope Barbosa has a plan to contain Penny Taylor. Lauren Jackson will get hers naturally, but she wasn't the one killing us.
Should be a great game, but I'm warning you, Aussies, I'm using my magic horn on you Aussies regardless.

Game Recap

Boxcores

USA 90, Lithuania 56
By the time the US players came strutting onto the floor like they're the greatest thing since passion fruit caipirinha, the arena was almost empty. That's how engaging they are. Not all the talent in the world can make up for bad attitude and the Americans' get worse with each new blowout. The scowling at the refs, the hissy fits and general unnecessary aggressiveness have turned off the crowd and turned it against them. Not that it matters anyway, they're that much better. Last night though, something weird happened in the first quarter and I have to attribute that to my magic horn. Yes, I made Lauren Jackson miss consecutive free throws, but it didn't work on Catchings. Actually, nothing did as she dominated on both sides of the floor. The sluggish start by the Americans excited the small but noisy Lithuanian crowd and I jumped in. I took a picture of the score when it was 15-14 for the Lithuanians as I know that might not happen again. The starting backcourt for the Americans couldn't keep up with the Lithuanian guards and it wasn't until Anne Donovan substituted Bird for Beard, Taurasi for Smith and Thompson for Parker that the US took over. And that was only in the second quarter. Taking advantage of its superior athleticism and quickness, the US advanced its guards and trapped the Lithuanian guards on several occasions, scoring off turnovers and opening up a big lead to close the half. The massacre continued in the third quarter. The defense unit formed by Beard, Smith, Swoopes, Milton-Jones and Parker pressed the Lithuanians and caused them to shy away from contact, opting for off balance jumpers and excessive ball movement. In the fourth quarter, with the Americans' third unit on the floor at times, the Lithuanians scored in garbage time and saved face.
I don't think the game against Russia will be close at all. I predict an easy American win and hopefully we can give them hell on Saturday.

Game Recap

Boxcores

Quarter-Final Previews

Russia versus Spain:
It will be closer than many think. The Russians have been a huge disappointment. Either that or they really like risky situations. If France doesn't lose to Cuba, they could've ended up in last place. In any event, they still have the new Supernova, Maria Stepanova. If she can keep out of foul trouble, she shouldn't have a problem dominating the fragile Spanish frontcourt. On the other hand, Spain will need Amaya Valdemoro to have an encore performance after scoring 39 points against Lithuania. The Russians don't like standing outside the perimeter too much, so there is a weakness the Spaniards can explore. Still, it won't be enough.
Russia advances.

Brazil versus Czech Republic:
Janeth Arcain twisted her ankle against Canada and is a game-time decision, even though she has said she will play. If she can't go, Micaela will replace her in the starting lineup. With Micaela, Brazil gains speed and defense, but loses in scoring prowess and she will hardly attract double teams from the Czech. Brazil's head coach AC Barbosa has said that the team has to score 80 points in order to beat the Czech Republic. In all honesty, the only magic number I had been paying attention to was any combination of Mets' wins and Phillies' losses, but now that that one is over with, I'd like to know the reasoning behind Barbosa's math. Is it because the Czech score "only" 73 PPG?
Now they held the Americans to 63 points, how is that for a magic number?
Their rebounding could prove key, not to mention steady point guard Hana Machová, living up to the hype and then some, can shut down opposing players while finding the open person on offense just as easily. The only problem is that the Czech don't shoot the ball well whereas Brazil has good shooters all over.
I think the homecourt advantage will prevail and we're going to get our revenge against the Aussies in the semis.
Brazil advances.

Australia versus France:
I won't waste my time overanalyzing this one. The reward for being undefeated is facing a tired French team that can't buy a bucket on offense. Also, the brotherhood between Aussies and Brazilians will help them advance. Not that they needed any help, but we'll be cheering them on. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oye, Oye, Oye.
Australia advances.

USA versus Lithuania:
See Australia versus France. A walk in the park for the US team. Both Spain and Brazil destroyed the Lithuanians. This one will be a bore, so the Americans had better start preparing for Russia.
USA advances.

So the 4 usual suspects will advance. Now you didn't need me to tell you that, did you?

Today's Games & Predictions

GAMES	WINNER
Lithuania x Spain	Spain
Brazil x Canada	Brazil
Australia x Argentina	Australia
Cuba x Russia	Russia
P.R. of China x France	France
USA x Czech Republic	USA

USA 90, Russia 80

This one was worth ditching Brazil vs. Spain for. Basically, even more so after I learned Brazil had lost by one point on a blown call before a sold out Ibirapuera. That made me happier. Well, not happier because we lost, but mainly because I wasn't there to watch it. I was there for the game against Australia and it wasn't pretty. But that's for another post. I am trying to catch up, so here's what I remember from this game. The Russians came to win this game, so it wasn't 2002 all over again. Only thing is that the US also came to win and they started out firing on all cylinders. It was very clear from the begining that the US would explore Russians' flawed perimeter defense and get away with it, so they converted three 3-pointers early on with Tina Thompson and Diana Taurasi and kept on firing from long range. The Russians on the other end couldn't buy a 3-pointer and take advantage of the Americans' flawed perimeter defense. See a pattern? They let the US open a big lead in the first quarter only to come back within 4 in the second. That's when things started unraveling for the Russians. On a freakish play similar to a car wreck, several players collided and Russia's starting poing guard Oxana Rakhmatulina hurt her knee and had to be taken out of the game. The Russians were already without forward Tatiana Shchegoleva who had left the game with a sprained ankle. From that point on what had been a furious comeback became a rout with a simple chess move. The Russian coach had Russian Turnover Machine Svetlana Abrosimova running the point. That was one tall lineup, but not the most coordinated one. I have no idea why he didn't go with Ekaterina Demagina or even Ilona Korstin to run the point. Either one would have been a way better option than my beloved Svet. Also, it was interesting that she played so many minutes against the US and barely got off the bench against France and Czech Republic. In any case, the US used fastbreaks to take over the game and the Russians couldn't keep up. The very confused officiating crew had the Russian starting frontcourt in foul trouble early on and 3 minutes into the third quarter Maria Stepanova fouled out. She was unbelievable in the game. Her mid range jumper is a thing of beauty and not one American post player could stop her. Once she stepped out of the paint, it was over. Swish. Stepanova converted 8 of 10 field goal attempts, but couldn't do it all by herself. Once she was gone, that opened things up for the post players and then it became the Candace Parker show. Natalia Vodopyanova was the only other scoring threat on the Russian Team and that wasn't enough to challenge the US. Russia failed to score points out of the Americans' 22 turnovers and the fourth quarter was rather disappointing for those who were expecting high IQ basketball from both teams.
In the end, it was clear that the US have no challengers in the tournament and they're just having fun inbetween now and the 23rd.

Boxcore

Recap

Today's Games & Predictions

GAMES	WINNER
Korea x Argentina	Argentina
Spain x Brazil	Brazil
Lithuania x Senegal	Lithuania
Australia x Canada	Australia
Chinese Taipei x Czech Republic	Czech Republic
P.R. of China x Nigeria	P.R. of China
Cuba x France	Cuba
USA x Russia	USA

USA 79, Nigeria 46

First of all, hooray for the scoreboard people. You guys are really quick studies, I'm impressed.
So we got to the arena at the same time as Team USA. The two vans bringing the players, family members and respective entourage blocked the main entrance, so we had to walk around right when the players were stepping out of the van. Sue, Diana and Tamika were quick to acknowledge the crazy Americans shouting their names Doris Burke-style. The others, namely Alana Beard, Tina Thompson and Michelle Snow, had their ear buds/noise-cancelling headphones on, so they were in their own world.
We are sitting in the yellow section across from the benches. The yellow section behind the benches is closed for the general public and that is very uncomfortable VIP seating, may I add.
We stopped to grab a bite before the game and while I was devouring my delicious hot dog, in walks The Commish. Yup, our very own Donna O., in her summer executive attire. See, I told ya, Bibb, I can see farther than you and I wasn't even standing on the shoulders of giants. The Crazy Americans drew their guns, I mean, iPods, so quickly, Clint Eastwood would be jealous. Donna was nice as usual, but I can't believe nobody asked what she thought about the Mercury and Ann Meyers. Even if it were to get the PC answer. Isn't it funny that Donna O. is here and Val Ackerman isn't even though she's the President of USA Basketball? Why am I not surprised...
The game started out sloppy, but it wasn't called as closely as the game against China, even though this was one physical affair. To quote my friend Keira, the Nigerians can't hit a coconut with a guitar, but can they defend. They were right up there with the Monarchs and Shock in that they were overtly physical sometimes. And not surprisingly, when the going gets tough...D-Nasty gets going. She still has sharp elbows, but the refs were having none of that, so she and Cheryl Ford got called for elbowing their opponents. Talking about rough plays, my impression of the Katie Smith flagrant was that she had intentionally kicked the Nigeria girl while she was down, which is a very low thing to do in my book, so I booed right along with the rest of the arena. Upon reviewing the game tape, I decided it was unintentional, but that had to hurt. A lot. Sorry about that, Katie.
I was happy to see Nigeria convert a field goal in the first quarter as I was sure that wasn't going to happen. Once they started hitting their shots, they got confident. Umoh is a decent PG, she called the right plays, but there isn't one single mid-range shooter on that team. They always took it inside and made life easier for the American posts as they swatted balls with the greatest of ease.
No one impressed me in particular, but it's not surprising that Milton-Jones excelled in a physical game. Sue Bird wasn't as sharp, the guards actually had a tough time getting their shots off at one point, especially when Nigeria went on a 7-0 run to start the second half. They lost steam in the fourth quarter though and the Americans ran away with it in the end. Not pretty, but at least it was a nice night to be out watching a basketball game.
Today, oh man, today. I'm really curious as to what the Russians' gameplan will be. In 2002 they totally mailed it in during their preliminary round game against the US only to make it as hard as they could in the Final.
Will they play dead again? Will the refs let this one get physical, too? Which team will benefit from that?
I can't wait to find out!
Go Svet!

World Champs Day 2

Did I ever say that I hate being stuck in traffic? How about being stuck in traffic while Brazil is playing? Not to mention it was 100 degrees outside, I had the AC on max and I was still sweating. Not nice.
So I finally got to the arena in the 3rd quarter and Brazil had opened up a 9-point lead. In my first two minutes there, Korea gets within 4. I'm obviously bad news, I thought. It was temporary though. Helen hit a 3 that ignited a powerful run to finish the quarter. She played so much better. Izi and Micaela finally got going and we saw a lot of points on fast breaks. Our posts did a better job of establishing position earlier. They dominated the boards easily against a pretty young and short Korean team. Alessandra had a double-double with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Iziane led all scorers with 25 points and Helen contributed 19 points. For Korea, Yeon-Há Beon had 21 points. Janeth played fewer minutes as we're gonna need her against Spain, even if Valdemoro can't play.
Unfortunately, I will miss the game as I want to watch the Russians vs. the Americans for obvious reasons. Brazil has already qualified for the preliminary rounds (as have Australia, USA, and Russia. Surprise, surprise.), so I wanna see if the Russians will again play dead or challenge the US. In either case, the game won't be predictive of what might happen should these teams meet again later on.

Boxcore

Recap

Other results

USA 119, China 72

Two crazy Brazilians and two crazy Americans braved the rush hour traffic to take on the USA versus China game in Barueri, which is supposedly a suburb of the Grand São Paulo, but it's just another city, actually.
The arena looks nice, I'd already been there, but I still don't like the seats. They're way too uncomfortable if you don't bring any padding to sit on. My back hurts today and I still have a bunch of games to attend there.
A surprisingly big and raucous Chinese crowd was there in their orange shirts waving their red flags. We caught the final 5 minutes of Cuba versus Chinese Taipei, a game that wasn't supposed to be that close, just like the one we had just watched, but I guess they forgot to tell the Taiwanese. I couldn't believe when I saw Yamilet Martinez was still playing. I think she's 50. Her profile says she's 26. Heck, I'm 26. She's Cuban, so she's definitely 50. The first time I saw her play I was 10 and she was already old then. That was the early 90's. Yamilet, can I have what you're drinking? I sure want to be 26 forever.
Cuba managed to win a game that was all but lost, so we were ready for some American basketball. The crazy Americans handed flags to the innocent children, a gesture of pure imperialism that I do not condone. Please, think of the children. By the way, I was given a flag, too. They definitely could care less about the children.
Then someone decided that Taiwan should play the US for good measure. They forgot or simply didn't know how to replace the 3-letter country code on the scoreboard. The Chinese fans pointed towards the scoreboard frantically trying to get the scorer's table guy to fix it to no avail. The game had a 20-minute delay due to the Herculean task of switching to China's country code. There's a bit of a rivalry going between the two nations, so that wasn't nice. How about a test run next time, guys?
Great, game started, the American players seemed a bit nervous, and they picked up quick fouls. Tina Thompson brought her game and her drama queen face to Brazil. Priceless. She sat on the bench the entire first half and by the end of the half, she was one of two Americans who hadn't scored. The Americans established their inside game early, moving the ball around and finding the open player effortlessly thanks to Sue Bird's inspired night. I knew Brazilians are known to inspire many things, I didn't know our effect on shooting percentages. Ok, now I do. Catchings played the passing lanes to perfection, limiting the Chinese ball movement and leaving them to try to vie for position with the American post players, which they couldn't do for obvious reasons.
I learn something new everyday. Like if you grab the opposing player's legs, that is not considered a foul apparently, but it was really funny. One of the Chinese posts was doing that all the time. It takes ankle biter to a whole new level.
Sheryl Swoopes got in the game in the first quarter. She could barely elevate, but that didn't stop her from playing smart ball. Distributing the ball and getting in position on the perimeter. She swished two 3-pointers and opened up things even more for the post players. She gave everyone a scare while diving for a loose ball to keep it from going out of bounds after the Americans were up by 30-plus points. Not really necessary, but my wild guess is that she was trying to be like Coop in that famous play we saw for years and years in the WNBA promos. Just be yourself, Diva. It's kind of funny how the Brazilians pronounce her name. Shoops. I think they're thinking it's the same as the drink, Schweppes.
How awesome is Candace Parker? It's even better that she's going to the Liberty. Donna Orender was in the house. I was using my Jedi mind tricks incessantly. That's a given. Always glad to help.
I was one of the several fans who wanted to see a dunk. Taurasi was a bit selfish going for a layup while she could've set up Parker for a monster dunk. I'm going tonight with hopes to seeing a dunk. I sure ain't going to see another massacre, which will inevitably happen.
Ford picked up where she left off. She was again the most physical player, generally bumping and pushing the Chinese under the basket. She dominated. The best lineup on the floor in my opinion was Bird, Taurasi, Augustus, Ford and Parker. That is the future and it looks bright. They were so in synch; you'd think they've been playing together since they were kids. Ford had just arrived. I look forward to seeing those 5 together again.
Bird didn't get much rest. I guess Anne Donovan could've let her rest more, but she wants her to get to know the team, so I understand it. She'll be wiped out by the end of the tournament though.
Taurasi's NBA-range 3 was great, but play of the game honors goes to CP15 for her crossover on the poor Chinese defender and layup. Pure talent. Second on my list was Bird's behind the back dribble and jumper. Her shooting form is completely, totally goofy, but she makes the baskets, so it works for her. In a Shawn Marion kinda way.
The massacre was complete by the end of the first half, but the Americans played consistently hard throughout the game. Tina Thompson came back to score 17 points after finishing the first half without a basket. That's effort.
A fun night, not a fun drive, but we're ready for more. And man, am I looking forward to tomorrow's game.

Boxcore

Recap

Today's Games & Predictions

GAMES	WINNER
Spain x Argentina	Spain
Brazil x Korea	Brazil
Lithuania x Canada	Lithuania
Australia x Senegal	Australia
France x Chinese Taipei	France
Russia x P.R. of China	Russia
Cuba x Czech Republic	Czech Republic
USA x Nigeria	USA

World Champs Day 1

Nothing could ever have prepared me for what was to come. If somebody had told me that I would face 100km of traffic jams to see Brazil almost lose to Argentina in "The Arena from Hades' while almost suffering a heart attack in the process, I wouldn't have gotten out of bed. Seriously. I really didn't need that. Brazil, Barbosa, everyone on the team didn't take Argentina seriously. They took them lightly. They took them for granted and if not for a series of questionable calls, they would've paid dearly for that mistake. But we have Arcain and they don't. Her soothing presence on the court led the way. I would kill Helen for trying a desperation 3 with 11 seconds left on the gameclock, but her putback was nothing short of amazing. Yeah, Helen, you can go ahead and thank God, but He's busy, you know? Can you pleaaaaase take a look at the shotclock next time?
Brazil started out the way it was supposed to, attacking the basket, getting in the paint. The first quarter was really a sign of things to come, at least I was thinking that. Then the crazy substitutions began, like a revolving door nonstop. Of course the team got in a funk and Argentina took advantage of our non-existent transition defense. They missed several layups, which is exactly why Brazil shouldn't have had a problem dominating the rebounds. And they really couldn't hold on to the ball. Fumbled passes, steals, missed shots, it was a freak show at one point. The couple of thousand fans at the arena all of a sudden went silent. I could see Hortencia shaking her head and muttering what's going on here...the Queen knows better.
I don't like Adriana at the point. There, I said it. She has terrible ball handling issues, she's too small and she takes ill advised shots more often than she finds teammates open and gets them the ball. It's not in her. We can run like crazy with her, but not when we're not grabbing any rebounds. That doesn't bode well. In the half court set, she can only dribble until the 5-second mark and then get rid of the ball. That's a trademark. Our inside game vanished in the second half. A series of NBA range 3-pointers followed and Argentina closed the gap. From then on, it's all a blur for me. I couldn't really understand what was going on. We blew them out 2 months ago. This is your homecourt, for heaven's sake. Defend it!
That's all that comes to mind right now. That and telling a bunch of Argentinian fans to sit down and stop complaining about the refs. That and getting angry at one of the roving vendors inside the arena. That and not having A/C when it's 40 degrees inside. That and the sound system. That and the botched anthem. That and creating my own parking space. That and preparing my stuff to go to the game this morning. That and escaping work to watch the game. You know what? I just want to forget it. Tomorrow is a new day and they won't play like that way again. I can only hope.

Boxcore

Recap

Other results

Today's Games & Predictions

GAMES	WINNER
Korea x Spain	Spain
Argentina x Brazil	Brazil
Lithuania x Australia	Australia
Senegal x Canada	Canada
France x Czech Republic	Czech Republic
Russia x Nigeria	Russia
Cuba x Chinese Taipei	Cuba
USA x P.R. of China	USA

10 Players to Keep an Eye On

Hana Machová, PG, Czech Republic
Machova is not exactly an unknown. She's considered by many the best European point guard, but somehow she has quietly flown under the radar. She was very good in Athens and in the European Championships, leading the Czech to the title, but I think this is her breakout tournament. Look for her to lead all players in assists and AST/TO.


Yakelyn Plutin, PF, Cuba
Plutin was the Tournament of the Americas' MVP when Cuba defeated Brazil and she really impressed me with her quick feet and strong post play. A Cheryl Ford-type of player, with great instincts around the basket and good footwork. She's Cuba's latest great post player no one will ever know because she doesn't play in the WNBA.


Tatiana Shchegoleva, PF, Russia
Shchegoleva is not exactly unknown either, but she has a high ceiling and she's only 24. Tall, skilled post player with range. Oh, she's blonde, too. Know anyone that fits that bill?
She can play the 3 on offense and if Russia decides they want to go with a frontcourt consiting of Shchegoleva, Stepanova at the 4 and Ekaterina Lisina at the 5, who the hell is gonna stop them???


Ekaterina Lisina, C, Russia
Russia's latest Espionage Barbie is going to be the Original Espionage Barbie's partner in crime. The 6'6" 19 year-old is still learning the ropes, but the sky is the limit, literally, as she might still be growing up!
Lisina still is raw and needs work, but who can deny that the Russians do a great job with their post players?


Micaela Jacintho, SF, Brazil
Micaela will finally have her chance to play in a major tournament after suffering severe injuries right before the 2004 Olympics and 2002 World Champs. Think Shameka Christon. That's who she reminds me of. Smile and everything. She has tons of talent and will be Brazil's spark plug. Look for her and Izi to get a few oncourt speeding tickets until the end of the World Champs.


Érika Cristina de Souza, C, Brazil
The 2006 Spanish League MVP suffered a mild ankle sprain last week and will miss Brazil's first 2 games, but that shouldn't stop her. This was going to be her tournament, but I still believe she'll be able to have an impact and establish herself as the primary offensive threat for the Brazilians. She was signed by the New York Liberty earlier this year, but backed off of the deal to stay home and practice with the national team. Make no mistake, she really wants this title.


Candace Parker, F/C, USA
The only college player on Team USA's roster, Parker impressed the coaching staff with her performances during the team's spring tour of Europe and Oceania. She's ready for prime time and, with Lisa Leslie's absence, should get plenty of playing time to justify the hype.


Erin Phillips, PG, Australia
Those Australians and their pesky little guards. Phillips impressed everyone in her rookie season in the WNBA playing as a backup point guard for the Connecticut Sun. She has range, is quick and should play the same spark off the bench role for the Opals.


Alana Beard, SG, USA
Beard is known quantity in the WNBA, but this is her first major competition with the US's Senior Team. She will be the x-factor for Team USA. Her ability to guard the perimeter will be game-changing and since Swoopes could be sidelined for great part of the tournament, Beard will be relied upon heavily to guard the opponents' best player in many occasions.


Laia Palau, SG, Spain
With the absence of Amaya Valdemoro, Palau has been Spain's main offensive option. She is deadly from the 3-point line and has good passing skills. Look for her to put up big numbers if the Spanish don't get their star back in time.

Let the Games Begin!!!

It's opening day in the 2006 World Championship. The anticipation is over and all teams will take the floor to begin their quest for world glory and the most coveted title in Women's Basketball. Many will try, but few teams have real shots at dethroning the Americans, the reigning two-time champions. The last official game Team USA lost was against Brazil in the 1994 World Champs semi-finals. Since then, they have dominated all major competitions, collecting medals and individual honors. BUT...that was when they had the Swoopes-Leslie-Staley trifecta. Staley has retired and is now one of the team's assistant coaches. Leslie has withdrawn from the team for personal reasons and Swoopes is not in game condition. The US must decide today if they will keep her on the official roster, even if she can't play, or if they'll add Cappie Pondexter who traveled with the team as an alternate. Team US will miss their talent, but above all their leadership and experience. The talent is there, like it's always been, but nobody on Team USA stands out as a vocal leader capable of gathering the troops and taking them to the next level. The talent diferential might be enough. But then again, it might not be enough. Russia and Australia can smell blood and they are more than ready to challenge the US for world supremacy. Even if it's only for a couple of years. The Russians have a tall, skilled frontcourt while the Opals rely mostly on their tested stars. Brazil would be a huge surprise and the homecourt factor has been incredibly overrated. As if thousands of fans can make up for the coaching staff's ineptitude. There will be no homecourt advantage in the early stages with the team playing during working hours. Other teams that might sneak in are Czech Republic and Cuba. Group D may turn out to be the most interesting as there are no clear-cut favorites. Despite the Czechs' reputation, they haven't exactly fared well in World Champs play.
As it is, I still don't see the US being dethroned, but if I had to take a wild guess as to who can beat them, Russia is my pick.