Olympics 2012: Most Important Events for Team USA on Day 15

The United States has started to pull away from China in the overall and gold medal counts. Team USA can secure the top spot with strong performances during the final weekend of the London Games, which will come to an end on Sunday.

Since the American medal total has received such a huge boost from female athletes this year, it's only fitting that two of the three most important events on Saturday feature the women. Two of the most dominant teams at the Games will take to the court looking for gold.

With that in mind, let's take a look at the most anticipated events on Day 15 for the United States.

Women's Basketball Final

Even though their male counterparts have been controlling the spotlight, the women's team has been just as impressive during its run to the gold-medal game. The Americans will battle with France, a team which is also undefeated.

The United States is looking to extend its streak of consecutive Olympic gold medals to five. The streak dates all the way back to 1996, and even though the players have changed over the years, they have rarely been challenged.

This year's squad is heavy with former Connecticut Huskies, including veteran leaders Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird. At this point, the only thing that can stop them from winning gold is a poor performance. France can't match their depth or skill level.

Men's 4x100-Meter Relay

The United States actually qualified faster than Jamaica for the final of the most prominent track relay of the Olympics. The caveat being that Usain Bolt didn't take part in the heat which means Jamaica has quite the ace up its sleeve.

It's an event that basically comes down to those top-two contenders and then everybody else racing for third, unless something crazy happens. If the United States can pull off the upset, it would be a major accomplishment.

A lot of pressure is on the shoulders of Justin Gatlin. He was the country's top finisher in the 100 meters, winning bronze, and he must minimize the difference between himself and Bolt to give his teammates a chance to pull out the win.

Women's Volleyball Final

Yet another undefeated American team. The women's volleyball squad has won all seven of its matches in the event, dropping just two sets along the way. Only Brazil stands between the United States and a gold medal.

The two sides faced off during the group stage of the tournament, and Team USA won by a score of three sets to one. A victory in the rematch would lead to the first gold medal for team. It lost to Brazil four years ago and had to settle for bronze.

A combination of revenge and strong play from the outside hitters should give the United States an edge. Destinee Hooker has been on fire ever since the first match and can complete her terrific run with one more memorable performance in the final.