Spain avoid drama to confirm Olympic ticket; Korea also Tokyo bound

BELGRADE (Serbia) - Spain put Saturday's defeat behind them by overcoming Great Britain in a 79-69 victory to secure a return to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

With a 2-1 record, Spain joined China in advancing from Group B of the FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament and also confirmed a spot for Korea, despite their earlier 100-60 loss.

Turning Point: Spain went on a 12-0 run in the first quarter and were able to maintain their lead throughout the contest. Great Britain closed to within two points twice in the second, but could not find a way to break down their opponents as they pulled away.

Game Hero: Cristina Ouvina started out strong in the first half and finished with an all-round effort of 8 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals in the win with Maria Conde stepping up off the bench with a team-high 15 points.

Stats Don't Lie: Spain punished their opponents' errors with 22 points off of turnovers in the contest and they enjoyed 65 percent success from inside the arc in the first half to set the platform for their success as the defense held firm at the other end.

Bottom Line: Spain responded well to a disappointing loss to China and were not at their best in any of three games. Great Britain had another strong showing from Temi Fagbenle and Jo Leedham-Warner but were left to rue the loss against Korea, who take the final ticket from the group.

 
FIBA