The United States downed Cuba 3-0 here on Sunday for the third place at the women's volleyball World Grand Prix Finals.

The Americans, who lost to Brazil in a five-set thriller in Saturday's semi-finals, claimed a 25-20, 25-22 and 25-16 victory in just 68 minutes.

Logan Tom had 10 kills and three blocks to lead the United States with 14 points. Tayyiba Haneef and Prikeba Phipps added 11and 10 points respectively.

Cuba, who finished 11th last year, wasn't at their best. But it has already achieved its best result at the World Grand Prix since 2001, where they finished fourth.

The young Cuban team sent the United States 24 points through mistakes.

(Xinhua News Agency August 2, 2004)