St. Louisan Napheesa Collier enjoyed a big breakout performance at the FIBA World Cup on Thursday morning.
The former Incarnate Word Academy All-American scored a game-high 19 points to lead the USA to a 108–56 victory over Hungary in the quarterfinals in Berlin, Germany.
Collier also added seven rebounds and a blocked shot while making nine of her 13 attempts from the field in just 15 minutes. She set the tone early with 10 points and three rebounds in the first quarter as the USA raced to a 29–12 lead. She was named Player of the Game for her efforts.
After struggling in the first two games, Collier has rebounded with two strong outings as she has displayed the form that has made her a perennial All-WNBA performer. She had 12 points and six rebounds in a victory over Czechia on Tuesday.
The USA enjoyed its most dominant performance of the competition in improving to 4–0 in the World Cup. The team shot 60 percent from the field and better than 50 percent from 3‑point range.
Collier led a balanced scoring attack in which five USA players scored in double figures.
Rhyne Howard scored 15 points, while Jackie Young, Kahleah Copper and Caitlin Clark added 10 points each. Angel Reese added nine points and six rebounds. Clark led the team with nine assists.
The USA will advance to Saturday’s semifinals, where it will face either Spain or Australia.