'Bonnie Three-as': Deas propels Gems into semis

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Australian guard Bonnie Deas' clutch long-range bomb with 51 seconds left in overtime propelled the Gems into the semi-finals of the Under-19 FIBA Women's World Cup in Czechia on Friday, July 18, 2025.

The Gems will face Canada in the semi-finals after beating Hungary 82-76 at Starez Arena Vodova, Czechia.

Deas, who was also a perfect 12-of-12 from the free throw line, found space on the right side after Hungary gave up an offensive rebound and got caught in soft pick and roll coverage with their guard sagging to the middle stop Deas going to the rim and their big in drops.

Deas splashed it to put the Gems up 80-76. She was just 1-from-14 from the field when she hit the clutch three. Monique Bobongie iced the game with a pair of free throws with 13 seconds left.

Key Details

• Result: Australia 82 def. Hungary 76
• When: July 18, 2025
• Where: Starez Arena Vodova, Czechia

By the Numbers

• Bonnie Deas (Australia) starred with 17 points, six rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block in 32 minutes.
• Manuela Puoch (Australia) scored 12 points and had nine rebounds in 28 minutes.

What Happened

Australia edged Hungary in a tight opening quarter, taking a slim 22-21 lead. The second period saw Hungary respond with improved shooting, outscoring the Australians 20-17 to take a 41-39 halftime advantage. Both teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter with Hungary maintaining their slight edge, entering the final period leading 62-58.

The fourth quarter showcased Australia's defensive prowess as they held Hungary to just seven points while scoring 11 of their own to force overtime tied at 69-69. In the extra period, Australia dominated with a 13-7 run to secure the six-point victory and advance to the semi-finals.

Despite shooting struggles from the field (35.3 percent), Australia's dominance on the glass proved decisive. The Australians out-rebounded Hungary 55-to-36 with Madi Ryan (nine rebounds), Manuela Puoch (nine rebounds), and Sitaya Fagan (eight rebounds) leading the effort. This rebounding advantage gave Australia crucial second-chance opportunities throughout the contest.

Bonnie Deas delivered a clutch performance despite shooting just 13.3 percent from the field. Her perfect free throw shooting (12-of-12) and all-around contribution of six rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block demonstrated her value beyond scoring. Sitaya Fagan also made her presence felt defensively with four steals and two blocks in just 24 minutes.

Australia's bench provided a significant spark, outscoring Hungary's reserves and maintaining intensity when the starters struggled. Monique Bobongie contributed 11 points on efficient 4-from-8 shooting, while Prasayus Notoa added nine points, five rebounds, four assists and two blocks in her 22 minutes.

This depth proved crucial in the overtime period when fatigue became a factor.