At the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, Australia lost to Spain in the bronze match with a dismal score. That loss served as a spark for Australia in the World Cup semi-final against Spain.
In an interesting, tight and intense first half it was Australia who tied the grip and could go to break with five points leading 37-32. Patty Mills scored best on the field with eleven points in the first half.
The third period clearly affected the players and the high tempo. The three-point shooter was not clockwise from either of the teams. However, Spain approached points and were only three points behind for the final period.
The end was very dramatic. Spain came closer and at the same rate Australia became more stressed. A few simple mistakes and with 8.7 seconds were catching up and passing with a point. With 4.7 seconds remaining, Mills got the chance to score Australia with two penalties. Mills only threw and the match ended 71-71 after the regular in time.
By extension, it was equally tight. Spain's offensive giant Marc Gasol had to put in two penalties with only 4.7 seconds left, and he did so, 80-80 and a new five-minute extension period.
In the second extension period, Spain went knock. Firm Ricky Rubio and Marc Gasol, who scored 32 points on the pitch, eventually lowered Australia by 95-88. Most points in Australia, 32, were Patty Mills.