The Belgium vs. Australia Women’s Olympics Basketball matchup will tip off at 5:30 a.m. ET on Sunday morning. With Australia listed as slight favorites and the total sitting in the 140s, what’s the smart bet for Sunday’s matchup?
Belgium vs. Australia Betting Odds
According to Fanduel Sportsbook, Australia is a 1.5-point favorite to knock off Belgium on Sunday morning. As for the total, the number currently sits at 146.5.
Team Overviews:
- Belgium:
- Belgium has established itself as a strong team in European basketball with key players like Emma Meesseman, who is pivotal to their offense and defense. Known for her versatility, she can score from the post and perimeter, and her leadership is crucial. Belgium’s style revolves around a balanced attack, with solid contributions from guards such as Julie Allemand and forward Kyara Linskens. The team tends to rely on their ability to move the ball and create open shots, while defensively, they are disciplined and focus on shutting down key opponents.
- Australia:
- Australia is a powerhouse in women’s basketball, consistently performing well in international competitions. The Opals are known for their physical play, strong defensive strategies, and the ability to score in transition. Led by star players like Ezi Magbegor and Sami Whitcomb, Australia boasts a deep roster with multiple scoring options. They are also experienced in international play, which gives them an edge in high-pressure situations. Their frontcourt, led by Magbegor, is particularly strong, and they often dominate the boards and control the pace of the game.
Key Matchups:
- Emma Meesseman vs. Ezi Magbegor:
- This is likely the most crucial matchup of the game. Meesseman’s ability to score and facilitate will be tested against Magbegor’s defensive prowess. Whichever player can assert dominance in the paint will significantly influence the outcome.
- Julie Allemand vs. Sami Whitcomb:
- Allemand’s playmaking against Whitcomb’s perimeter defense will be another key battle. Allemand’s ability to get her teammates involved and handle pressure will be tested by Whitcomb’s quick hands and aggressive defense.
Game Dynamics:
- Belgium’s Strategy:
- Belgium will aim to use their ball movement to create open shots, especially from beyond the arc. They will stretch Australia’s defense and avoid a physical battle inside, where Australia has the advantage.
- Australia’s Strategy:
- Australia will likely try to impose their physicality and control the boards. They’ll look to push the pace and get easy points in transition, capitalizing on any mistakes by Belgium. Defensively, they’ll aim to limit Meesseman’s impact and force other Belgian players to step up.
Belgium vs. Australia Prediction:
Australia enters the game as the favorite due to their depth, experience, and physical style of play. However, Belgium is more than capable of pulling off an upset if they can dictate the pace and get contributions from their role players. The game will be close. Defense and rebounding likely determining the winner. Give me the under 146.5.
Belgium vs. Australia Women’s Basketball Prediction: UNDER 146.5