The US women beat reigning FIBA World Champions Australia 71-67 Tuesday night to get the top spot in the FIBA Diamond Ball for Women. The hard-fought contest seemed like a good preview for the game that would really matter — the August 23 gold medal clash. That’s the date that most people expect these two teams to meet anyway, although Russia or China or maybe Brazil might have something to say to that.

Penny Taylor (Phoenix Mercury) led the way for the Australian Defence Force Opals with 19 points and Lauren Jackson (Seattle Storm) had 16 and 8 boards.

Lisa Leslie (LA SpOrks) had 14 and 10 for the US women and point guard Sue Bird (Seattle Storm) contributed 11 on five-of-six shooting (WTG Birdy!). Candace Parker (LA SpOrks) also had a great showing with 12 buckets.

Tournament MVP: Lauren Jackson (AUS)

All-Tournament Team:
Lauren Jackson (AUS)
Sue Bird (US)
Diana Taurasi (US)
Candace Parker (US)
Sui Feifei (CHN)