This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Rio de Janeiro • Kim Smith Gaucher did a lot of good things for Canada in an Olympic women's basketball tournament opener Saturday, even if scoring was not a big part of her contribution.
The Canadian team captain, a former University of Utah star, posted 10 rebounds, seven assists and three points while playing 20 minutes in a 90-68 victory over China.
All 12 of Canada's player logged at least eight minutes of playing time in the rout, with women's preliminary play being staged at Youth Arena in the Deodoro neighborhood, about 30 minutes from the Olympic Park where the men's tournament is held.
Shona Thorburn, Gaucher's former Ute teammate, contributed five points and three assists for Canada in 15 minutes. Michelle Plouffe, another ex-Ute, added three points. Her twin sister, Katherine, had eight points.
Tamara Tatham led Canada with 20 points, making all four of her 3-point attempts. Canada shot 11 of 17 from 3-point range and was credited with 31 assists on its 32 baskets. "We know our offense confuses people and other teams can't keep up," said Katherine Plouffe, a former Marquette player.
The Canadians missed their first six shots from the field but still took a 19-9 lead after the first quarter and gradually extended the margin throughout the game, leading 37-26 at halftime and 60-46 after three quarters.
Canada's next game in Group B preliminary play is Monday against Serbia. The team will meet the USA on Friday, after losing 83-43 to the Americans in a recent exhibition game.
— Kurt Kragthorpe