Tiffany Hayes scored 11 points and made the crucial basket late in the game, helping Azerbaijan beat the U.S. 20-17 in women’s 3×3 basketball pool play at the Paris Olympics on Wednesday. This loss leaves the defending champions with a 0-2 record.
The score was tied when Hayes, who plays for the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces, drove to the basket and scored a layup, putting Azerbaijan ahead 18-17 with just six seconds left.
The U.S. had a chance to take the lead back, but Hailey Van Lith missed a 2-pointer.
A last-minute foul by the U.S. allowed Alexandra Mollenhauer to make two free throws, sealing the win for Azerbaijan.
The U.S. team, a top contender, has had a tough time so far, having also lost to Germany in their first game.
Dearica Hamby led the U.S. with seven points and five rebounds. She joined the team this summer after Cameron Brink was injured. Van Lith contributed five points.
“We need to forget this game quickly and focus on the next one,” Hamby said.
