Julie Allemand stands alone atop the assist list in World Cup history, breaking a tournament record during a matchup that sent her team forward in the tournament, according to reports from the Associated Press.
Julie Allemand Breaks Assist Record
During the first half of Belgium’s 80-68 victory over Australia, Belgian guard Julie Allemand surpassed the previous assist record of 108 set by Laia Palau of Spain, as reported by the Associated Press. Allemand reached 111 assists in her World Cup career during the game that secured Belgium a spot in the quarterfinals. The playmaker opened the tournament with 87 assists and quickly added 24 across the first three games.
The record-breaking assist arrived when teammate Emma Meesseman sank two free throws with 1:58 remaining in the first half, according to the Associated Press. Unlike WNBA rules, FIBA awards an assist when a shooter is fouled and successfully converts the resulting free throws.
Passing Legendary Playmakers on the Global Stage
Allemand’s climb up the historical leaderboard included passing several iconic guards during the tournament. According to the Associated Press, she moved past the career numbers of basketball greats Dawn Staley and Sue Bird before overtaking Palau’s benchmark.
Did you know? FIBA’s rule rewarding assists on fouled free-throw attempts played a direct role in the historic milestone, allowing Allemand to break the record before halftime on a pair of free throws by Emma Meesseman.
Belgium coach Mike Thibault praised the milestone during the postgame press conference covered by the Associated Press. “It’s a huge accomplishment over here,” Thibault said, pointing out the caliber of players whose records Allemand surpassed.
Unselfish Play Drives the Belgian National Team
Allemand credited her historic achievement to the team-first mentality embedded in the Belgian program. According to the Associated Press, the guard expressed pride in her squad’s approach. “I’m just so proud because for Belgium, this is how we play,” Allemand said. “We are so unselfish.”
Sandy Brondello, who coaches Australia and also coaches Allemand with the Toronto Tempo in the WNBA, noted that the milestone aligned entirely with the guard’s natural style. According to the Associated Press, Brondello stated that the record reflects Allemand’s identity as a pass-first point guard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who held the previous World Cup assist record before Julie Allemand?
Laia Palau of Spain held the previous record with 108 career assists, according to the Associated Press.
How many career assists does Julie Allemand have now?
Following the win over Australia, Allemand holds 111 assists in her World Cup career, according to the Associated Press.
Do FIBA and WNBA rules differ regarding assists?
Yes. According to the Associated Press, FIBA grants an assist when a player is fouled in the act of shooting and makes the resulting free throws, whereas the WNBA does not.
Which legendary players did Allemand pass during the tournament?
According to the Associated Press, Allemand passed the tournament numbers of Dawn Staley, Sue Bird, and Laia Palau.
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