Team USA women’s basketball coach Kara Lawson expressed her hope that her team can offer Americans a reason to come together on a weekend marked by emotional significance. The U.S. secured a spot in the FIBA Women’s World Cup championship game with a 76-66 win over Spain in Berlin on Saturday, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
Lawson highlighted the importance of winning the championship, acknowledging the profound impact of the anniversary. She stated, “Being part of USA Basketball for so long instills great pride. From my teenage years to now, representing the U.S. in this capacity holds significant meaning.” Despite being in Europe, Lawson felt the presence of the U.S. during this somber anniversary.
“It was a powerful memory that extends beyond one day,” Lawson said while discussing the September 11 attacks, which resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths at the Pentagon, in New York City, and near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Lawson underscored the team’s role in promoting unity, not only within the women’s basketball community but across the country. She expressed her hope that the team’s performance will create national solidarity, highlighting the pride in representing the U.S. on the basketball court.
Lawson’s connection with USA Basketball began in her teens, culminating in her role in the 2008 Beijing Olympic triumph. She coached the U.S. to a gold medal in the Tokyo Olympic women’s 3×3 basketball event and contributed as an assistant at the 2024 Paris Games. In 2025, Lawson was appointed to lead the women’s national team through the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The semifinal against Spain proved challenging. The game was tied at 58 at the end of the third quarter, but Team USA held Spain to eight points in the final period. A decisive 12-2 run secured their victory, extending their World Cup winning streak to 35 games.
Team USA, led by Breanna Stewart with 16 points, Kahleah Copper with 13, and Jackie Young with 12, now faces France in the championship game. France defeated Germany 86-64 in the other semifinal, presenting a rematch of the 2024 Olympic final. The U.S. seeks its fifth consecutive World Cup title and 12th overall, while France enters its first final in history.
Faith plays an essential role for Team USA guard Paige Bueckers, who openly shares her Christian beliefs. “My faith has been my foundation, carrying me through life’s challenges,” Bueckers stated.
Jackson Thompson, sports journalist for Fox News Digital, covers politically and culturally significant sports topics, with citations from prominent media and government bodies.