The United States women’s basketball team triumphed over France, securing a 97-79 victory to claim their fifth consecutive FIBA World Cup title. This win marks the 36th straight World Cup victory for the Americans, with their last loss dating back to the 2006 semifinals against Russia.
Despite the final score, the match posed significant challenges. The U.S. encountered its largest deficit in recent tournament history, trailing by 14 points in the first half. Breanna Stewart and Jackie Young led a comeback, narrowing the lead to just two points by halftime. Caitlin Clark contributed with a crucial 3-pointer before the buzzer.
The Americans took control in the second half, beginning the third quarter with an 11-2 run. Stewart, adding her fourth World Cup title to her accomplishments, played a pivotal role in this surge, contributing four points. Stewart, who was named the tournament MVP, ended the game with 22 points, while Young added 18.
France challenged the U.S., reducing the lead to 55-51. However, unsportsmanlike fouls by France on one play helped the Americans extend their advantage with a 16-3 run, entering the fourth quarter leading 73-57, a gap France could not close.
The American team featured several young players, including Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers, who experienced their first World Cup. Despite the presence of newcomers, the team’s veterans were crucial in securing victory.
Throughout the tournament, the U.S. displayed vulnerability, evident in their close three-point win over Italy in pool play and a ten-point victory over Spain in the semifinals. Nonetheless, consistent victories over recent tournaments remained the norm.
France’s performance resulted in their best finish in World Cup history. Previously, the French team lost narrowly to the U.S. by one point at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. In the finals, Dominique Malonga scored 21 points, and Gabby Williams added 20 for France, who initially held a strong lead before the Americans rallied.
Spain secured the bronze medal by defeating host Germany.