The second semifinal game of the women’s 5×5 basketball tournament at the 2024 Olympics is Friday, Aug. 9 at 3 p.m. ET, with Belgium playing France (Peacock/USA Network).
This will mark the seventh time these two teams have ever faced off, with the current series tied at 3-3. These two teams play each other very close; however, France has won two of the last three games dating back to 2022. Here are some key factors to look out for during the semifinal match:
How will Meesseman and Belgium’s offense perform?
Belgium has been an offensive juggernaut throughout the tournament, led by star forward Emma Meesseman. Their ability to space the floor and share the ball has been the key to their success, allowing them to average just under 80 points per game.
Meesseman has looked like arguably the best player in Olympic competition. She recently went off for 30 points on 67 percent shooting against Japan and followed that up with an efficient 19-point, nine-rebound and six-assist effort against Spain. Even Team USA had very little answer for her offensively. France will look to disrupt Belgium’s offensive flow by pressuring their guards and denying Meesseman easy touches. It will be crucial for Belgium’s perimeter players to knock down shots and relieve the pressure on…
