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

The U.S. women’s basketball team secured its fifth straight FIBA World Cup championship by defeating France 97-79. Despite an early 14-point deficit, the team fought back with a strong performance.

France initially led 31-17 in the second quarter in Berlin, showcasing their formidable presence. However, the U.S. team regained control with an impressive 30-12 third quarter, demonstrating their dominance ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where they aim for a ninth consecutive gold.

Breanna Stewart, named tournament MVP, highlighted the team’s consistent excellence. “These teams are always getting better, but we’re the standard,” she stated, after scoring 22 points with 10 rebounds.

The U.S. team has an incredible winning streak, with 36 consecutive World Cup victories since 2006 and 72 across World Cup and Olympic play. Kara Lawson, the head coach who succeeded Cheryl Reeve post-Paris Games, relied on her experienced lineup for Sunday’s comeback.

Stewart made history as the first American since Lisa Leslie in 1998 to achieve a 20-10 game in a World Cup final. Lawson praised her leadership throughout the tournament in guiding younger players and fostering a winning mentality.

Jackie Young contributed 18 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark led the bench in her debut senior global championship with 12 points.

Lawson commended key contributions from Caitlin Clark, Rhyne Howard, Angel Reese, and Aliyah Boston, noting their impactful performances in critical moments. She highlighted the tournament’s difficulty due to growing international competitiveness.

The U.S. team’s journey was challenging, marked by a narrow victory over Italy in group play and a tough semifinal against Spain, which they ultimately won 76-66.

Facing France, a team with significant WNBA representation, including All-Star Gabby Williams, was formidable. Williams scored 16 points in the first half but was limited to 1-of-7 shooting in the second half.

Chelsea Gray emphasized the team’s ability to silence skeptics, contributing 12 points and five assists. Throughout the six games, the U.S. averaged a 26-point victory margin, despite being without A’ja Wilson, who withdrew for health reasons.

Lawson acknowledged that seven of the 12 U.S. players were new to global championships, illustrating the depth and talent of American players. “This wasn’t your typical USA Basketball team,” she remarked, highlighting the strength of the players and the federation.