82-73: Spain misses gold at the end in the Women’s Under-17 World Cup

A great game of Isa Hernandez and the great defensive work of Spain during the 40 minutes were not enough to win gold in the World sub-17 that closed this Sunday in the Republic Czech. The Spanish team fell in the final against USA by 82-73, having to settle for a remarkable silver in a championship of this level.

Spain They arrived with the game tied two minutes from the end, after having alternated control of it with their rival, but could not contain the North Americans’ attacks on the rim and lacked the previous success in those decisive minutes.

The game started at a high pace, typical of two teams with great offensive potential. USAled by an unstoppable Micah Eye (20 points and maximum efficiency of the game with 25), he tried to impose his physicality. However, Spainled by a brilliant Isabel Hernandez (28 points), responded with courage and choral basketball, always staying close on the scoreboard.

The first quarter ended with an advantage for the North Americans (27-23), but the Spanish showed that they would not give up. In the second period, the Spanish defense, with tactical adjustments, managed to stop the American attack, allowing only 14 points. Despite Sandra’s significant losses Davila and Ona Ballesterthe rest of the team took a step forward, reaching halftime with a minimum deficit of 35-39.

The second half was a tactical and physical battle. The third quarter maintained the tone of equality (59-55 for USA). Everything would be decided in the last act. Spain He reached the last two minutes with a real chance of victory, standing up to an American team that seemed to have more energy reserves.

In the final moments, with the score very tight, USA achieved a key quarter thanks to crucial baskets and greater defensive pressure that caused losses for the Spanish team. Spain tried to close the gap, but the American success from the free throw line (27/39 in total for the USA, 10/22 for Spain) ended up sentencing the crash.