The defending champion U.S. women’s 3×3 basketball team suffered a 17-13 defeat to Germany in their opening pool play game on Tuesday.
Hailey Van Lith led the U.S. with six points but struggled with her health post-game. She attributed her performance issues to an illness exacerbated by the heat, which she believes stemmed from standing in the rain during the opening ceremony. Despite feeling unwell, Van Lith remains determined, having played through similar conditions before in the NCAA Tournament.
Sonja Greinacher led Germany with five points and six rebounds, while Marie Reichert also added five points. The U.S. initially took a 5-0 lead, but Germany quickly responded with a six-point run, including three points from Elisa Mevius, to take the lead. Despite efforts from Van Lith and Dearica Hamby, who cut the deficit to 11-10, Germany pulled away with a decisive four-point surge, sealing the win.
Greinacher expressed confidence from the victory, saying it boosted the team’s morale moving forward. Cierra Burdick acknowledged the team’s struggle, attributing it to the limited time they’ve spent playing together, particularly after the recent replacement of Cameron Brink by Hamby due to an injury.
In other pool play action, Canada triumphed over Australia with a commanding performance led by twins Michelle and Katherine Plouffe. Michelle Plouffe’s early contributions helped Canada establish a significant lead, and Katherine Plouffe’s clutch baskets secured a 22-8 victory. Alex Wilson led Australia with six points and six rebounds but was unable to prevent the loss.
