U.S. women’s volleyball squad beats China to improve to 3-0

LONDON -- The U.S. has never won a gold medal in women’s indoor volleyball, a long line of almosts and so-closes since the sport debuted in the 1964 Olympics.

There was a silver in 1984 and again in 2008, but that’s about it.

There’s still an eternity left in the London Olympics, the medal matches not taking place until Aug. 11, but the U.S. looks as close as ever to finally breaking through.

Destinee Hooker had 17 kills as the U.S. beat China, 26-24, 25-16, 31-29, Wednesday at Earls Court to improve to 3-0 in the tournament.

More impressive than its record is who the U.S. has beaten: Brazil, the No. 2-ranked team in the world; up-and-coming Korea; and now China, the world’s No. 3-ranked team.

Hooker was solid throughout the match, as usual, but reserve Megan Hodge was especially effective and finished with 18 kills. Hodge ended the match with a delicate hit off China’s block after the U.S. squandered five previous match points.

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