The Serbia vs. Australia Women’s Olympic Basketball contest tips off at 5:00 a.m. ET on Wednesday morning. With Australia laying 8.5 points and the total sitting at 139.5, what’s the smart bet for this matchup?
Serbia vs. Australia Betting Odds
According to Fanduel Sportsbook, Australia is an 8.5-point favorite versus Serbia and is -430 on the moneyline. Serbia has odds of +320 to pull off the upset. As for the total, the number sits at 139.5, with the under carrying -115 juice.
Team Overviews:
Serbia:
- FIBA Ranking: High-ranking European team with a strong presence in international competitions.
- Key Players:
- Sonja Vasić: Veteran forward known for her scoring ability and leadership.
- Ana Dabović: A dynamic guard who can create plays and score efficiently.
- Jelena Bruks: An experienced center who provides size and strength in the paint.
- Strengths:
- Strong defense and disciplined team play.
- Excellent ball movement and outside shooting.
- Experienced squad with several players who have played in multiple international tournaments.
- Weaknesses:
- Depth could be a concern if key players face foul trouble.
- Can sometimes struggle against teams with significant size and athleticism.
Australia:
- FIBA Ranking: Consistently ranked among the top teams globally.
- Key Players:
- Liz Cambage: Dominant center known for her scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking.
- Ezi Magbegor: Rising star with versatility and athleticism.
- Sami Whitcomb: Sharpshooting guard who can score in bunches.
- Strengths:
- Size and physicality, particularly in the frontcourt.
- High basketball IQ and excellent execution of set plays.
- Depth and versatility, with strong contributions from the bench.
- Weaknesses:
- Potential reliance on Cambage for interior scoring.
- Transition defense can be vulnerable against fast-breaking teams.
Matchup Considerations:
- Frontcourt Battle: The duel between Liz Cambage and Jelena Bruks will be crucial. Serbia will need to find ways to contain Cambage while avoiding foul trouble.
- Guard Play: Serbia’s guards, led by Ana Dabović, must be effective in breaking down Australia’s defense and creating open shots.
- Three-Point Shooting: Both teams have capable shooters. The team that can effectively stretch the floor and hit perimeter shots will have a significant advantage.
- Defensive Schemes: Serbia’s disciplined defense will be tested by Australia’s inside-out game. Adjustments and tactical changes during the game could be decisive.
Serbia vs. Australia Prediction
This game is expected to be highly competitive, with both teams possessing the talent and experience to win. Australia’s size advantage in the paint and depth might give them a slight edge, but Serbia’s cohesive team play and outside shooting can turn the tide in their favor. The best bet today, based on the strengths of both teams, is the under.
Serbia vs. Australia Prediction: UNDER 139.5