RODEZ (FIBA U17 World Championship for Women) - The USA used of their strong inside presence to shake off hosts France in the second half and beat them 70-45 in a packed Amphitheatre.

In front of a 2,000 strong crowd, the game was very intense early on with the Americans taking a 22-12 lead at the end of the first quarter.

But with the fans cheering them on, the French fought back and cut the deficit to three, 31-28 by halftime.

After the break, the Americans made the most of their height and power advantage down low to create some distance between themselves and France and the strategy worked to great effect as they took a 56-36 advantage into the final frame.

The French were struggling, turning the ball over time and time agan and forced to foul to prevent easy baskets.

Breanna Stewart paced the Americans with 13 points and seven rebounds.

Quotes

Babara Nelson (USA head coach): “It was a very exciting game in a great atmosphere. It was the first time that I coached in these conditions, so I’m very happy with the outcome of the match.”

Arnaud Guppillotte (France head coach): "I congratulate the USA. It was a great game. It was very important for us to play against a team with so many talented players. In Europe, we are considered as the “USA of Europe” because of our physical and potential qualities. It was interesting to play against the USA because they maintained the same level throughout the game in all areas: offense, defense and offensive rebounds. We were tired at the end and we missed some opportunities. We have to correct that. We will try to level up for the next game; we’ll try to be better and to concentrate on our next game against Turkey."

FIBA/LOC