Several teams continue to compete at a high level in the 2024 Paris Olympics Women's Basketball competition, with the China vs. Puerto Rico game set up as a must-win scenario for both ball clubs. These two teams have a record of 0-2 in this summer's competition, with most head-to-head meetings coming down to the wire.
The China vs Puerto Rico game is scheduled to tip off on Saturday at 2:00 a.m. PST/11:00 a.m. CEST.
China vs Puerto Rico: Starting lineups and depth charts
China starting lineup and depth chart
Team China is expected to run their usual starting five consisting of PG - Yang Liwei, SG - Wang Siyu, SF - Li Meng, PF - Mengran Sun and C - Li Yueru.
Here is a look at their depth chart:
Puerto Rico starting lineup and depth chart
Meanwhile, team Puerto Rico will also play their staple starting lineup, featuring PG - Arella Guirantes, SG - Brianna Jones, SF - Trinity San Antonio, PF - Mya Hollingshed and C - Sofia Roma.
Here is a look at the squad's depth chart:
China vs Puerto Rico: Preview
China and Puerto Rico will play in their Group A matchup as they hope to secure their first win in the Women's Basketball competition at the Olympics.
China lost in a disappointing manner to Serbia on Wednesday (81-59). Compared to their efficient shotmaking against Spain, they were held in check offensively by Serbia's defense to have a lowly 29% shooting for the game.
Size was also a problem for them as they were outrebounded 44-35. Turnovers have also been an issue for the team, as they had 12 against Serbia and 23 against Spain.
Puerto Rico, on the other hand, is coming off a 63-62 loss to Spain. Similar to their 58-55 loss to Serbia, this unit has run into offensive hurdles each time.
Against Spain, they shot 35% from the field, including 23% from beyond the arc. It was a tight battle to secure the boards, but Puerto Rico came up short in executing stops throughout the game, with Spain shooting 42%.
China vs Puerto Rico: Players to watch
Former Washington Mystics guard Li Meng and Li Yueru are the two leading scorers for China. Meng has showcased her WNBA experience on the international court as she is averaging 19.3 points (66.7% shooting) per game.
When it comes to Puerto Rico, basketball fans should monitor Arella Guirantes' production. The former LA Sparks star is averaging 15.0 points (34.2% shooting) per game.