Basketball: U.S women's final against Spain read more at here http://spinonews.com/index.php/component/k2/item/643

The Americans 19-point margin of victory was far below their average of 41.7 in their first six games in Rio, and at halftime they were ahead by a mere four points.

The United States beat France 86-67 to secure their ninth trip to the women's Olympic basketball final, where they will meet medal game opponent Spain.

In pursuit of a sixth consecutive gold medal the world number one United States encountered more resistance from feisty fourth-ranked France than they have from other opponents here. They also suffered with the absence of team anchor Sue Bird, benched by a sprained knee.

In the other semi-final, Spain eased past Serbia 68-54, and, while delighted to be assured of their first women's Olympic basketball medal, they were positive in difficult situations about their chances to defeat what they consider a dream team.

The U.S. team extended their Olympic winning streak to 48-0 since 1992.

Spain, who had edged Serbia 65-59 in their opening group game, dominated from the start, storming to 20-9 lead in the opening quarter and never trailed the rest of the way.

Alba Torrens and Astou Ndour led Spain with 14 points apiece while Nicholls chipped in with 13

The American women said they are taking Spain seriously even though they defeated them by a resounding 103-63 in their second game here.

 

France, which lost the gold to the United States in London 2012 86-50, will play for the bronze against Serbia.