Basketball · International
Italy pulls clear of Tall Ferns despite New Zealand's mid-game resistance
Cecilia Zandalasini scored eighteen as Italy won 74–51 in the San Juan world cup qualifier.
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Italy defeated New Zealand 74–51 in women's World Cup qualifying after the Tall Ferns repeatedly threatened to close the gap. The Italians began with a 10–2 run, but New Zealand improved defensively and reduced the difference to eight at half-time.
Tegan Graham's shooting and Ella Tofaeono's inside finish brought the Tall Ferns within two during the third quarter. Italy responded with nine unanswered points and later a twelve point run that secured control of the final period.
Cecilia Zandalasini led Italy with eighteen points, while Graham scored nine for New Zealand. Jade Kirisome and Briarley Rogers recorded their first international baskets during the game. Coach Nat Hurst welcomed improvement from the opening match while identifying turnovers and the points conceded from them as continuing concerns.
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