Coale, Team USA Advance To Semis At World University Games

Sherri Coale's USA squad continued to roll at the World University Games, defeating Sweden 103-72 in Friday's quarterfinal.

The Americans (4-0) faced their toughest challenge of the tournament yet, leading Sweden just 26-24 after the first quarter. Team USA, however, took a 51-40 advantage into halftime and outscored its opponent by 52-32 in the second half.

"Our defense in the second half was much better than it was in the first," Coale said. "We kept the ball in front and forced them into taking contested shots. We did a much better job on the defensive glass. They are a tremendous offensive rebounding team and go at it very hard. If you can block them out, then you have an advantage in transition on the other end. That was what we were able to do in the second half."

Oklahoma's Aaryn Ellenberg scored four points, her first game outside of double figures, and grabbed five rebounds in 19 minutes.

Team USA shot 54 percent from the field and hit 10-of-24 3-pointers. Sweden shot just 36 percent and went one-for-19 from 3-point range.

The United States will play Australia, 72-58 winners of Canada, in Saturday's semifinal game at 12 p.m. Central. The game will be televised live on ESPNU.

Team USA is looking for its third straight and ninth overall gold medal at the World University Games women's basketball competition.