Additional Quotes: USA Women’s World University Games Team 84, Hungary 43
USA head coach Joe McKeown (Northwestern)
Thoughts on the win over Hungary:
The way we’re playing defense just wore them out. That’s the same thing we did to the Czech Republic. Because we’re able to play so many people, it really changes the game.
On the depth of the United States:
Being in the semifinals now, everyone is really good. We’ve got to make some shots and continue to play defense, but we really need to do what we do, and play to our strengths.
On the strong defensive effort, particularly in the second half:
We had a 12-point lead at halftime. To start the third quarter with great energy was really important. We got stops and that let us run out and get some easy baskets. We got some easy baskets, and that really helped.
On facing Japan in the semifinals:
They’re obviously playing really well after beating Australia tonight. We’re going to have to defend outside the 3-point line and off the dribble. It’s going to be another challenge defensively to guard them. It should be a fun game.
Brionna Jones (Maryland/Havre de Grace, Md.)
On winning the first medal-round game against Hungary:
I’m really excited that we came out starting the medal round well and that we really came together. We’re finally clicking and everything’s working so moving forward we’ll be ready to keep going for gold.
On the defensive effort in the second half:
I think we stepped up our intensity and got after them. We pressured them and caused some turnovers. We were able to put back-to-back stops together.
On the physical play inside:
I prefer a more physical game. I like to work off contact and with my back to the basket. If I can feel my player on my back, I know I can make a move.
On facing Japan in the semifinals:
Every game gets more important. Everyone out here is trying to go for gold and we know that we can’t look past Japan when we play them on Saturday.
Aerial Powers (Michigan State/Detroit, Mich.)
On the win against Hungary:
We’re feeling very excited to win the first medal-round game. It will help us get to the gold if we keep winning. We’re excited to get this one and we know we’ve got two more
On the defensive effort in the second half:
Our defense is what separated us. At first we couldn’t buy a bucket and we were missing easy shots that we usually make. Today our defense is what separated us and helped us.
On facing Japan in the semifinals:
I’m looking forward to the competition. Japan beat Australia and they’re a pretty good team. They’ll be one of the best teams we’ve seen so
