USA reaches World Cup QF amid ranking debate

Team USA secured a spot in the FIBA Women's World Cup quarterfinals following a hard-fought 55-52 victory over Italy. The win, however, was overshadowed by fan debate and controversy surrounding FIBA's latest power rankings, which placed France ahead of the undefeated American squad. Despite a perfect group stage record, the U.S. team's narrow escape against Italy, marked by their lowest point total in a major international tournament in 42 years, led FIBA to rank France as the team to beat. This decision drew sharp criticism from many U.S. fans who questioned the methodology, arguing that an undefeated record should supersede France's dominant performances. In the tense matchup against Italy, Jackie Young emerged as a key player, scoring six of her team-high 10 points in the crucial fourth quarter. Breanna Stewart, despite an uncharacteristic 1-for-9 shooting performance, contributed significantly with 11 rebounds and made the go-ahead basket with just over three minutes remaining. Italy's Cecilia Zandalasini led her team with 14 points, and her potential game-tying three-pointer at the buzzer fell short, sealing the U.S. win and their quarterfinal berth.