At the conclusion of the third quarter, the Netherlands is ahead of the USA with a score of 48-37, closing in on their second consecutive championship title after their first victory in Tokyo.
Since the first quarter, players Kramer and Beijer have been integral to the Netherlands’ success. After an initial slow start, the Dutch team has improved significantly, with Kramer grabbing her own rebound and contributing to a score of 48-35, signaling a strong advantage in the match.
The USA is struggling as they attempt to answer back, trailing 35-42, and failing to capitalize on opportunities under the basket. A moment comes when De Rooij scores a basket and earns a free throw, raising hopes for a comeback, but the USA ultimately misses the shot, leaving the score at 44-35.
In the powerlifting events, Oluwafemiayo from Nigeria impressively lifts 162kg, aiming for a Games record, while Xuemei from China secures her silver spot with a lift of 153kg.
Meanwhile, in the basketball game, the Netherlands is leading 31-26 as they head into the final quarter, raising doubts about whether the underdogs, the USA, can mount a significant challenge.
It’s half-time, and the Netherlands maintains a narrow lead at 31-24, suggesting a critical shift in momentum.
The USA took an early lead in the match, finishing the first quarter at 12-8, but the Netherlands has been struggling, experiencing a 1/10 success rate in field-goal attempts. Despite moments of hope, the USA has seemed anxious, leading with several points to spare.
As the day unfolds, anticipation builds for key upcoming events including finals in both canoeing and women’s wheelchair basketball, where the Netherlands will face the USA for a chance at gold. The excitement and pressure of the Games are palpable, with athletes striving for personal and national glory.