U.S. Women’s Basketball Triumphs for Fifth Straight FIBA World Cup Title

The U.S. women’s basketball team secured its fifth consecutive FIBA World Cup title, defeating France 97-79 after overcoming an early 14-point deficit. France initially led with a score of 31-17 early in the second quarter in Berlin.

The U.S. team took control with a strong performance, notably a 30-12 third quarter. This game is among the most crucial leading up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where they aim for a record-extending ninth consecutive gold. Tournament MVP Breanna Stewart stated, “These (other) teams are always continuing to be better, but we’re the standard. We always have been.” She scored 22 points and grabbed 10 rebounds.

The Americans have now won 36 consecutive World Cup games since 2006 and 72 in a row between World Cup and Olympic play. Head coach Kara Lawson, who replaced Cheryl Reeve after the Paris Games, relied on a veteran lineup to guide the U.S. to victory. Stewart, already a three-time Olympic gold medalist, achieved a milestone as the first American to record a 20-10 game in a FIBA World Cup final since 1998.

Lawson praised Stewart’s leadership throughout the tournament, particularly in mentoring younger players. Jackie Young, another Olympic gold medalist, contributed 18 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Caitlin Clark, participating in her first senior global championship, added 12 points off the bench.

In the biggest of moments, the plays that Caitlin made, the plays that Rhyne Howard made, the plays that Angel Reese made, Lawson commented. Aliyah Boston, how great was she last night (in the semifinals) and tonight?

Lawson predicted a challenging tournament due to increased international competition. The U.S. faced a close three-point win over Italy in group play and overcame a tie with Spain in the semifinals, eventually securing a 76-66 victory.

Against France, which boasted eight WNBA players, the U.S. overcame a significant challenge. Gabby Williams led France with 16 first-half points but was restricted to 1-of-7 shooting in the second half. Chelsea Gray, the U.S. starting point guard, remarked that the team managed to silence critics with their performance.

The U.S. team won all six of its games by an average of 26 points, despite A’ja Wilson’s absence. Wilson, a leading figure in global basketball, withdrew due to health reasons prior to the tournament’s start. Lawson highlighted that seven of the twelve U.S. players were experiencing their first global 5×5 championship, underscoring the depth and strength within the team and the federation.