Cameron Brink hyped as Hailey Van Lith & Dearica Hamby guide USA 3x3 Team to medal games

By John Ezekiel Hirro

Modified Aug 04, 2024 13:09 GMT

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LA Sparks rookie Cameron Brink extended her congratulations to Team USA’s women’s 3x3 basketball team for reaching the semifinals of the 2024 Paris Olympics, following their rocky start to the tournament.

After losing their first three games in Paris, Team USA rebounded impressively, winning five consecutive matches to secure a spot in the semifinals.

Despite being initially named to the team, Cameron Brink, who was later replaced due to injury, was quick to celebrate their success. She shared a photo of her LA Sparks teammates, Dearica Hamby and Rhyne Howard, on her Instagram Stories with the caption:

Cameron Brink congratulates Team USA for advancing to medal games

“Never had a doubt. LFG.”

Team USA clinched their semifinal berth by defeating China 21–13 in a knockout play-in game. They capped off pool play with a 14-12 victory over China, finishing in a four-way tie for second place in the eight-team pool. Hamby led the team with nine points and five rebounds in their second win of the day against China, propelling the reigning gold medalists into the medal rounds.

Germany topped the group with a 6-1 record, while the US, Spain, Canada and Australia each won four games. The US team, featuring Hamby, Howard, Cierra Burdick and Hailey van Lith, will face No. 2-seeded Spain in the semifinals on Monday.

What happened to Cameron Brink?

In June, shortly after being selected second overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Cameron Brink was called up to join Team USA’s women’s 3x3 basketball squad for the Paris Olympics.

“It was absolutely surreal. I was not expecting this whatsoever, but I’ve worked really hard for this. I love the coaches, the committee, everything, so I’m just beyond thankful,” Brink said.

“I’m most excited to be an Olympian. It’s been a dream my whole life and the opportunity to win a gold medal, especially with this group. Honestly, I can’t even put it into words. It’s insane.”

Unfortunately, Brink suffered a torn left ACL less than three weeks later during a game against the Connecticut Sun.

The injury happened with the Sun leading 9-5 and 6:23 left in the first quarter. Brink drove towards the basket against Sun forward Brionna Jones, awkwardly planted her foot, and collapsed in pain. She immediately clutched her left knee and struggled to put weight on it, requiring team staff to assist her to the locker room.

The Sun later confirmed it was a torn ACL.

With Brink sidelined, the Sparks are missing her 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.1 steals and 2.3 blocks per game.