The United States women's basketball team won their fifth consecutive FIBA World Cup on Sunday after defeating France 97-79 in the final. Although the US entered the tournament as favourites, they faced a tough challenge against an energetic French team before securing the victory. With this win, the American team extended their impressive 20-year unbeaten streak in both the Olympics and the World Cup.
France started the game strong and built a 14-point lead early in the second quarter, led by player Gabby Williams. However, the Americans slowly fought back. Right before half-time, US guard Caitlin Clark scored a crucial three-point shot, leaving the US trailing by only two points at the break.
The US team turned the match around in the third quarter by outscoring France 30-12. Consecutive three-pointers from Kahleah Copper and Jackie Young gave the Americans the lead, while US captain Breanna Stewart led all scorers with 22 points to guide her team to victory.
The final was a rematch of the 2024 Olympic final, where France also lost to the US. Despite the defeat, France earned silver, marking their best finish ever in a World Cup. Earlier in the day, Spain defeated hosts Germany 81-58 to take the bronze medal.