Chelsea Gray delivered at both ends during the closing stretch as USA edged Italy 55-52 in FIBA Women's World Cup group play. The guard drew a late charge before knocking down a jumper, helping the Americans complete a three-point escape after trailing by as many as 15.

What happened

Italy controlled much of the game, holding the lead for 30 minutes and 34 seconds despite a contest that repeatedly shifted direction. The teams produced eight lead changes and seven ties before USA found the decisive plays late.

Gray's closing contributions came with the Americans facing little margin for error. Her charge gave USA a critical defensive play, and her jumper supplied offense during a game in which points were difficult to produce.

Why it matters

The victory sent the Americans into the quarterfinals and preserved their perfect start with one Group D game remaining. It also extended USA's World Cup winning streak to 32 games, a run dating to 2006.

The result carried added weight because Italy had built a 15-point advantage and stayed in front for most of the game. USA still secured the win despite its shooting struggles, keeping its unbeaten group record intact before the final preliminary matchup.

By the numbers

USA shot 29% overall and made just 8.3% of its attempts from 3-point range. Those numbers left the Americans in a possession-by-possession fight through the closing stretch, with the final margin settling at three points.

Italy's 30:34 spent in the lead underscored how long USA played from behind. The eight lead changes and seven ties reflected a volatile game even as Italy held the largest advantage, while the 55-52 final showed how narrow the outcome remained at the finish.

What to watch next

USA closes Group D against Czechia on Sept. 7 with its perfect start still intact. The Americans already have a quarterfinal place secured, and the knockout round begins Sept. 10.