Game Report, USA vs China, 119-72 - Group C

BARUERI (FIBA World Championship for Women) - When it comes to women’s basketball in the United States, nothing is as rewarding as playing for the national team.

That’s why it wasn’t surprising to see Katie Smith and Cheryl Ford run onto the floor in the Americans’ opening game of the FIBA World Championship against China despite their arrival in Sao Paulo only that day.

Both had helped the Detroit Shock win the WNBA Finals over Sacramento last week.

Smith, an important member of the gold-medal winning sides at the last two FIBA World Championships, came off the bench in the first quarter and made an immediate impact, spotting team-mate Sheryl Swoops behind the arc.

Swoops buried a three-pointer to give the Americans a 21-9 lead.

The Asian champions twice pulled to within 10 points, but Ann Donovan’s side led 29-13 after the first quarter and pulled away for a comprehensive win.

"I have to say on the perimeter, to have Katie Smith coming off our bench, I think all of the coaches are breathing huge sighs of relief," said Donovan.

"Where we were good, we’re great now on the perimeter.

"And Cheryl Ford, just her presence in the post, she’s a banger. She left some bruises against China and that’s exactly what we need her to do. Both came in and did a great job not having worked with the team."

"I felt decent," Smith said.

"In the second half my legs started burning a little bit, I was a tad bit tired.

"Cheryl did a nice job too. We just needed to get the kinks out and get a sweat going. It was a great, great effort."

Sue Bird led the Americans with 20 points.

Day 1 Boxscores

Korea vs Spain: 57-87
France vs Czech Republic: 62-58
Argentina vs Brazil: 69-71
Russia vs Nigeria: 84-50
Cuba vs Chinese Taipei: 75-70
Senegal vs Canada: 64-65
USA vs China: 119-72

By PA Sport