Gems advance to semifinals after thrashing of China | FIBA U19 Women's World Championship
In what was their most impressive game of the tournament, thus far, the Australian U19 Women's squad defeated China to advance to the semifinals of the FIBA U19 Women's World Championship.
Kristy Wallace was the standout, leading the way on both ends of the floor as the Gems cruised to an 83-46 victory.
The Gems got off to the perfect start, beginning the game with an 8-0 run, forcing a Chinese timeout early in the first quarter. Chinese captain Jinbo Xing broke the drought with a 3-pointer, but the Gems went on another run, led by their star backcourt of Kristy Wallace, Tahlia Tupaea and Alex Sharp.
Wallace was the star of the first period, scoring 9 points, capped off by a step-back 3-pointer at the buzzer, helping the Gems to a 25-13 lead at the end of the quarter.
China opened the second period with a lot more fluidity on the offensive end, but Australia dominated the offensive glass to keep the big lead intact. Back-to-back 3-pointer from Mikayla Pirini saw Australia's lead balloon to 37-19 midway through the quarter, with the Gems dominating on both ends of the floor.
After struggling in the first quarter, Alanna Smith found her touch inside the paint, helping the Gems to a 48-28 lead heading into the main break.
The third period saw Wallace continue her great play, this time showing her prowess playing as a true point guard. The Baylor sophomore did a tremendous job getting to her spots, whilst setting up her teammates with timely passes.
The Gems continued to dominate the glass, with the period ending with an Anneli Maley offensive put-back, putting Australia up 63-39 heading into the final period.
Lauren Scherf and Alanna Smith opened the fourth period with back-to-back baskets in the paint, extending the Gems' already massive advantage.
It was Chantel Horvat who sealed the deal, scoring 9 of her 11 points in the fourth quarter alone, with Australia ultimately coming away with the 83-46 win.
Alanna Smith had a game-high 14 points, along with 6 rebounds, while Kristy Wallace chipped in with 12 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists.
Watch a full replay of the game below. The boxscore can be found here.
The Gems will face Russia in the semifinals, tipping off on Saturday night (early Sunday morning) at 1am (AEST).