U.S. Women’s Basketball Team Wins Fifth Consecutive FIBA World Cup

The U.S. women’s basketball team clinched its fifth consecutive Women’s FIBA World Cup title by defeating France 97-79 in Berlin. This victory marks a streak of 36 consecutive World Cup wins for the Americans, beginning after their loss to Russia in the 2006 semifinals. They have maintained a perfect record in gold-medal games, recording nine wins since finishing second to the Soviet Union in 1983.

The team’s triumph was not straightforward, with the Americans facing a 14-point deficit in the first half. Led by Breanna Stewart and Jackie Young, they managed to narrow France’s lead to two points by halftime. Caitlin Clark’s crucial 3-pointer at the buzzer reinforced their rally.

The second half demonstrated the Americans’ dominance, starting the third quarter with an 11-2 run, gaining a lead of 54-47. Stewart contributed four points during this critical phase. She was named the tournament’s MVP, finishing with 22 points, while Young added 18.

Marine Johannes of France attempted to guard Stewart closely during the match. Despite her efforts, the Americans increased their lead to 73-57 by the end of the third quarter. France, down 55-51, couldn’t bridge the gap following a 16-3 surge by the U.S., which included two unsportsmanlike fouls on France in a single play.

This championship team was the second-youngest the U.S. has sent to a World Cup. Newcomers like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers brought fresh energy, though the experienced players ultimately secured the victory. The Americans displayed vulnerability this tournament, as evidenced by a narrow three-point win over Italy during pool play, which was one of the closest contests in 50 years. Additionally, their 10-point win over Spain in the semifinal marked their closest challenge in recent medal rounds.

Despite those challenges, the U.S. wrapped up the tournament successfully, affirming their position as champions. On the other side, France achieved its best ever finish at the FIBA World Cup. The French were eager for victory after their one-point loss to the U.S. at the 2024 Paris Olympic gold-medal game.

French players Dominique Malonga and Gabby Williams made significant contributions, scoring 21 and 20 points respectively. The French team had a promising start, leading 20-17 after the first quarter and extending their lead to 31-17 in the second, thanks to Williams’ 3-pointer. Still, the Americans rallied to a 45-43 deficit by halftime, thanks to Clark’s timely 3-pointer. Spain secured the bronze medal by defeating host nation Germany.