The Big Picture
Team USA Women's Hockey, a well-oiled machine of puck-handling prowess and relentless determination, faced off in the quarterfinals. Going into the game, the question wasn't *if* they'd win, but *by how much* would they win, and whether or not the opposing team would even bother showing up for the third period. The team was riding a wave of pure dominance, and the hopes and dreams of a nation (or at least, the part of the nation that still cares about the Olympics) rested on their shoulders.
By the Numbers
20-1 The goal differential across Team USA's previous four games. 4 The number of games played before the quarterfinal. 0 The likelihood of the opposing goalie getting a good night's sleep. 1 The number of existential crises I've had while writing this. 100 The approximate percentage of Americans who can name at least one Kardashian, but probably can't name a single player on the women's hockey team.What Changed
What changed? Nothing, really. Team USA continues to be a force of nature in women's hockey, driven by a combination of superior training, funding, and a burning desire to prove that America is still number one at *something*. The other teams are probably wondering if they should just forfeit and go home to binge-watch Netflix.
Why It Matters
Why does it matter? Well, it's a distraction from the impending climate apocalypse, for one. Also, it's a reminder that sometimes, just sometimes, things go according to plan. In a world of chaos and uncertainty, the consistent success of Team USA Women's Hockey is a comforting, if slightly terrifying, reminder that some things are still predictable. Plus, maybe it will inspire some kids to pick up a hockey stick instead of a phone, which would be a win for everyone (except maybe the phone companies).