Early rampage sparks Latvians to decisive victory

MADRID (FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women) - Senegal's Bineta Diouf started the game with a three-pointer but Latvia dominated the rest of the way in a 94-34 Group A triumph at the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women.

The Baltic country, so impressive at last year's EuroBasket in Italy, scored the next 27 points after that Diouf three-ball and led 29-5 at the end of the first quarter.

There was no way back for the Senegalese, who finished runners-up at the 2007 FIBA Africa Championship.

Anete Jekabsone-Zogota had 19 points, including nine in the decisive spurt at the start of the game, while Gunta Basko finished with 17 for Latvia.

Ieva Kublina had eight of her 10 points in the game-winning spurt for the Latvians.

There was a worrying moment for the Senegalese with less than two minutes remaining.

Mame Diodio Diouf hit the floor hard after contact and had to be stretchered off and taken to hospital for further checks.

Moustapha Gaye, the Senegal coach, isn't giving up on reaching the quarter-finals.

In the post-game press conference, he warned Tuesday's opponents Japan to expect a different game.

"If there are any Japanese journalists here," he asked, "be ready because we will be on your back tomorrow."

Aye Traore had 11 points to lead Senegal.

Credit: FIBA. Click here for further information.