Garlepp’s Gems secure World Cup silver medal

The Australian Gems, coached by Sydney Flames’ Renae Garlepp, have claimed silver against the USA in the FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup Final in the Czech Republic. 

With a final score of 88-76, the Gems went 5-1 in the tournament. 

Despite the disappointing final result, it was another proving ground for multiple current and future WNBL stars. 

The first quarter set an exhausting pace, with both teams scoring a combined 49 points in the first 10 minutes alone.

Sydney Flame #228 Bonnie Deas got the scoring started early, and Southside Flyers young gun Manny Puoch followed with five points of her own at the end of the quarter. 

The US’ active hands and size caused Australia issues in the second term, allowing 12 fast break points and being outrebounded 28-14. 

The momentum shifted with Sitaya Fegan, whose chase-down block and triple in the quarter gave the Gems a second wind. 

Despite the elite defence, the Gems managed to maintain their offensive stride, ending the half 50-40. 

The pace of the first half caught up with both teams, with the third quarter becoming a crawl by comparison. 

US maintained their lead while Australia chipped away, keeping the game within five points for the majority of the second half.

With three minutes left, the game slipped away into the US’s full control, taking their biggest lead of the game. 

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Australia lacked the size to compete with the US, which is evident in the 55-32 rebounding difference and a 26-5 free-throw attempt differential. 

However, it was the Gems’ chemistry, teamwork and coach Renae Garlepp’s game plan that kept them in the game – with no single player scoring more than 13 points. 

The Gems can hold their heads up high, competing as well as any team has against the now 11-time gold medallists. 

This finish gives the Gems their fourth silver medal in tournament history, matching their 2021, 2019, and 1997 results all against the US.