USA vs Italy FIBA World Cup winners, losers led by Angel Reese defense

The United States women's basketball team has continued its impressive run at the FIBA World Cup with a hard-fought 55-52 victory over Italy in group play. The win marked the Americans' 32nd consecutive game in the tournament, but it was their smallest margin of victory since 1979 and lowest shooting percentage from the floor ever.

"Every single one of those wins came hard," said USA coach Kara Lawson, whose team advanced to the quarterfinals with the victory. "You have to have great respect for who you play, you have to prepare in a way to win. And so, it's supposed to be challenging, and we're supposed to have moments where we're not at our best."

The USA team faced off against Italy in March at the World Cup qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico, where they defeated the Italian team 93-59 behind Kahleah Copper's game-high 15 points. This time around, the Americans had a more challenging test, with Italy outperforming them in several areas.

Team USA had a rough shooting day, missing over 20 shots and failing to make a single 2-point field goal attempt. However, veteran guard Chelsea Gray stepped up in the clutch, delivering a game-winning shot with just over a minute left on the clock.

"Gray drew a timely charge around the 3-minute mark to shift the momentum, and then sank a gritty two-point jumper with 1:07 left on the clock to put the U.S. up 55-50," said Coach Lawson. "It was an incredible winning play by Gray there."

Meanwhile, Team USA's defensive efforts were impressive, as they held Italy to a FIBA Women's World Cup worst 28.6% shooting from the field. The Americans also recorded two blocks, with one of them coming on a steal and three rebounds.

"We wanted to break their rhythm because when they get their rhythm, it's really unstoppable," said Coach Lawson. "We tried with the zone, we tried different matchups, we tried some switches and ... did a great job on their post player because I know they want to put the ball inside it."

Despite Italy's struggles, this win marked the third consecutive time that the Americans have taken down Italian opposition in group play. Coach Lawson praised her team for persevering through tough games and emerging victorious.

"If you're fortunate enough at the end of the tournament to be the winner, that's why it's so satisfying," said Coach Lawson. "We just want to win, every single game."

The USA team will look to continue their momentum against Italy in their next matchup. Will they be able to overcome the pressure and adversity faced this time around? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain - the Americans are on a roll at the FIBA World Cup.