BANGKOK (FIBA U19 World Championship for Women) - Twice defending champions the United States announced their entry into the final in grand style scoring a whopping 82-51 win over cross-border rivals Canada on Saturday.

It was the US’ fourth entry into the final in five Championships – the Americans won the gold in 1997, 2005 and 2007 with the interspersing bronze in 2001.

The Americans, on a 7-0 run after losing their opener against Spain here, now await the winners of the Spain-Argentina semifinal.

Canada, who had scored a shocking win over Australia in the quarterfinals, began their maiden semifinal on an optimistic note. Nicole Clarke opened the scoring for the game with her three-pointer, but that proved only a flash in the pan.

The Americans showing well-knit cohesion hit back with a 27-0 run that took the winds of the Canadian sails.

Guard Skylar Diggins led the American charge with eight points, including a three-pointer and centre Kelsey Bone added as many with her strong play under the board.

Samantha Prahalis sank a sizzling three-pointer in her seven points and Nnemkadi Ogwumike added four to the American storm early in the game.

And the game only got more arduous for the Canadians.

Natalie Achonwa broke the barren period for Canada converting one of the two free-throws and moments went on to convert another followed by a success in the lane.

But Achonwa left the court soon never to return – possibly ruled out even for the bronze play-off – hurting her hip rather painfully. Her absence only made it more difficult for Canada.

Bone led the scoring for the Americans with 16 points and Ogwumike had 12 points, and four rebounds. Diggins and Prahalis chipped in with 11 apiece.

Kayla Alexander ploughed a lone furrow for the Canadians, especially in Achonwa’s absence, with 12 points.

Owens, however, was worried about the way the team turned the ball over in the third quarter.

“I think it was important for the girls to keep the focus on without being carried away by the scoreboard,” Owens said.

“We continued to remind them to concentrate on their game rather than look at the scoreboard,” she added.

“I think we just didn’t respond to that offensive quality,” said Canada coach Rich Chambers.

“We still have a chance for a medal. So we hope we can take this experience to tomorrow,” he added.

FIBA