Dominant Debut: U.S. Girls U19 Squad Storms into 2025 World Championship with Statement Victory…Read More…
The U.S. Girls U19 National Team made a thunderous entrance into the 2025 FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup on Thursday, delivering a commanding performance that left fans, analysts, and even rivals in awe. With poise, precision, and undeniable power, the young American squad dismantled their opening-day opponent, Latvia, by a final score of 87-53 at the Főnix Aréna in Debrecen, Hungary.
From the opening tip-off, Team USA asserted their dominance with a level of intensity that matched the high expectations surrounding them. This was not just a win—it was a declaration. A declaration that the U.S. remains the team to beat, and their pursuit of an unprecedented 10th gold medal in the tournament’s history is already in full motion.
A Ruthless Start
Within the first five minutes of the game, the Americans jumped to a 15-2 lead, fueled by a smothering full-court press and the relentless energy of point guard Jordyn Palmer, who finished the game with 16 points, 6 assists, and 4 steals. Latvia struggled to find any offensive rhythm under the pressure of the U.S. defense, committing 9 turnovers in the first quarter alone.
“We wanted to set the tone early,” said Palmer after the game. “Coach told us to play with pride, with urgency. We didn’t come here to ease into the tournament—we came to dominate.”
And dominate they did.
By halftime, Team USA had built a 45-22 lead, and all 12 players had already seen court time. The depth of the American bench became evident as every substitution brought fresh legs and unrelenting intensity.
The Frontcourt Force
While the guards controlled the tempo, it was the U.S. frontcourt that truly overwhelmed Latvia. Amaya Singleton, a 6-foot-5 center from Chicago, posted a double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds, including 5 offensive boards. Her partner in the paint, Brooklyn James, added 11 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 blocks, showing impressive versatility on both ends of the court.
“They’re a nightmare to guard,” said Latvia head coach Ilze Krumina. “You prepare all you can, but when you face that size, athleticism, and discipline—it’s a mountain.”
Tactical Precision
Beyond athletic dominance, the Americans demonstrated a high basketball IQ that made them even more dangerous. Head coach Cori Close, who leads the team after a strong NCAA campaign with UCLA, emphasized balance and discipline.
“This win wasn’t just about talent. It was about executing the game plan, rotating correctly on defense, and trusting one another,” Close said in the post-game presser. “We respect every opponent, but we hold ourselves to the highest standard.”
Team USA shot an efficient 51% from the field, including 9-of-20 from beyond the arc, and had 24 assists on 34 made field goals. The ball movement, unselfishness, and communication were hallmarks of a team that has been training with laser focus.
A Team Built for Gold
This year’s roster boasts a blend of experience and youth, featuring returners from the U17 squad that captured gold in 2023, as well as high school seniors and early NCAA standouts.
Among the standout performances was 17-year-old phenom Samantha “Sammy” Torres, who dazzled with her speed and court vision, tallying 9 points and 8 assists. Already committed to South Carolina, Torres is widely regarded as one of the most promising young point guards in the country.
“I just want to help us win, however I can,” said Torres humbly. “This group is special. We believe in each other.”
Looking Ahead
The victory places the U.S. atop Group B, which also includes France, Japan, and Latvia. Their next game is against Japan, a team known for its fast-paced offense and three-point shooting.
Coach Close is already focused on maintaining momentum. “You can’t relax in a tournament like this,” she noted. “Every game is a new test. We’re happy with the result today, but our eyes are on the prize.”
The U.S. will look to continue their unbeaten streak in U19 World Cup group play, a mark that has remained intact since 2001. With their performance against Latvia, it’s clear this 2025 team is more than ready to carry that legacy forward.
A Roar Heard Worldwide
Social media lit up with highlights from the game, with basketball legends and fans from across the globe praising the squad’s cohesion and firepower. NBA star and former U19 World Cup gold medalist Jayson Tatum tweeted, “These girls are for real. Proud of the next generation doing WORK. #TeamUSA.”
The road to the gold medal is long, but if this opening performance is any indication, the U.S. Girls U19 National Team is not just on a journey—they’re on a mission.
And the world is watching.
Next Game:
📅 Saturday, July 5, 2025
🆚 Japan
📍 Főnix Aréna, Debrecen
🕒 Tip-off: 4:00 PM Local Time / 10:00 AM ET
📺 Streaming on FIBA’s official YouTube channel and ESPN+
Stay tuned as the stars of tomorrow continue to rise.
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