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U.S. Women's Basketball Team Aims For Eighth Straight Gold

United States' Diana Taurasi (12) looks on during women's basketball preliminary round game against Japan at the 2020 Summer Olympics, Friday, July 30, 2021, in Saitama, Japan. The 42-year-old

The U.S. women’s basketball team is gearing up for the Paris Games with the goal of securing an unprecedented eighth straight gold medal. Led by WNBA MVPs A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart, the team is on a remarkable 55-game Olympic winning streak dating back to 1992 in Barcelona.

Veteran player Diana Taurasi, aiming for her sixth gold medal at 42 years old, remains focused on the immediate task at hand rather than dwelling on past achievements. The team is determined to establish its own identity and success in Paris, regardless of historical precedents.

The U.S. women's basketball team is vying to surpass the U.S. men’s basketball team's record for the most consecutive gold medals, with the men having won seven straight from 1936-1968. The team's journey begins with a match against Japan, a rematch of the gold-medal game from three years ago in Tokyo, where the U.S. emerged victorious with a 90-75 win.

Despite limited practice time since the team's formation in June, the Americans are confident in their depth and ability to wear down opponents. The team's advantage lies in its roster's exceptional depth, allowing for seamless player rotations and maintaining a high level of performance throughout games.

With only about 14 hours of practice together before their opening game against Japan, the U.S. team remains focused on continuous improvement and making the most of the time available. The players acknowledge the increasing competitiveness in women's basketball globally and are prepared for the challenges that lie ahead in Paris.

As the team navigates logistical challenges and disruptions in travel plans, they remain resilient and adaptable, trusting in their preparation and security measures. The U.S. women's basketball team's pursuit of an eighth consecutive gold medal is a testament to their dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to excellence on the court.

For more updates on the Summer Olympics, visit AP Summer Olympics.

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