Team USA opened its quest for an eighth straight gold medal with a resounding win, and the Stars and Stripes face Belgium in the second game of the group stage.
A'ja Wilson led the United States with 24 points and 13 rebounds and Breanna Stewart added 22 points and eight rebounds in the team's 102-76 win over Japan.
On the other hand, the Belgians dropped their opener to Germany, 83-69.
Emma Meesseman, a former WNBA Finals MVP in 2019 with the Washington Mystics, led Belgium with 25 points, followed by Julie Vanloo with 18.
United States vs. Belgium betting picks and predictions
Belgium +24.5 (-115)
With five players in double figures, the US women were clicking from the jump against Japan. An 11-point halftime lead opened up in the third quarter, when the US outscored Japan 29-18. Look for the team to continue its strong play against Belgium.
In addition to Wilson and Stewart, Brittney Griner, Sabrina Ionescu, and Kelsey Plum all scored in double figures with 11 points each. There should be 4-6 American women in double figures again against the Belgians.
However, Belgium, led by Vanloo's 19 points, only lost to the US by two points, 81-79, in an Olympic qualifier in February. Belgium knows how to keep it close against the Americans.
Look for Team USA to win this game comfortably, but for Belgium to cover the 24.5-point spread.
Over 162.5 total points (-110)
Team USA wants to score often. Belgium will not be able to stop them, and will have to be sharp from the outside to keep up.
With a 100-point showing already under its belt, Team USA should be just as explosive in Game 2. Stewart and Wilson are likely to lead the scoring yet again.
Look for the total to go Over 162.5 points Thursday.
Team USA vs. Team Belgium odds
Spread | USA -24.5 |
Total Points | O/U 162.5 |
Read the latest Olympics news on site.
This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.
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