KARLOVY VARY (2010 FIBA World Championship for Women) - The United States are just two victories away from a cherished gold medal at the FIBA World Championship for Women after making quick work of Korea on Friday.
The Americans stormed out to a huge first-quarter lead and never looked back, ultimately claiming a 106-44 victory.
Tina Charles scored six of the USA's first eight points to go in front 8-2.
Geno Auriemma's team had a 25-8 stranglehold on the contest with 1:15 to go in the opening frame.
"I thought the beginning of the game, we knew we had a big advantage over them size wise and fitness wise," said Auriemma.
"We are also a much deeper team and Korea was down to nine players and that was very difficult for them.
"We didn't want to start the game and not be ready.
"The starting five really set the tone and everybody that came in added to it."
The USA finished with seven players in double figures, led by Angel McCoughtry's 17 points.
The blowout was a stark contrast to the contest on Wednesday, when the Americans held on for an eight-point victory over defending champions Australia.
The Aussies are deemed to be their biggest threat to the gold medal.
"We feel like every game is good," said McCoughtry.
"We want to show up and play and show that we're here to get the gold medal.
"It doesn't matter if we're up 100 or two points - we're looking to get better each game."
The Americans will now face the winner of the Quarter-Finals between France and Spain.
"We are really excited about being in the Semi-Finals regardless of who we face, whether it's Spain or France," Auriemma said.
You can see Team USA's Semi Final with the winner of France vs. Spain on FIBATV.com.
FIBA