USA Claims Fifth Consecutive FIBA Women's World Cup Gold with Comeback Victory Over France

In this rematch of the 2024 Olympic gold medal game, which the USA won by a narrow margin of 67-66, Team USA coach Kara Lawson expressed pride in her players' performance during critical moments. Breanna Stewart led the team with a double-double, scoring 22 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. Stewart was also named the tournament's MVP for the second time.

“I’ve been fortunate to play with a lot of amazing players and this group was really special. We continued to thrive through challenges,” Stewart said, reinforcing the team's legacy. Jackie Young contributed significantly with 18 points, six rebounds, and five assists; she was honored as the Player of the Game and named to the All-Tournament Team alongside Stewart.

Kahleah Copper added 15 points, while both Caitlin Clark and Chelsea Gray scored 12 points each. The USA dominated the boards, out-rebounding France 38-25 and capitalizing on French turnovers to score 23 points.

Dominique Malonga scored 21 points for France, while teammate Gabby Williams netted 20 points, although she contributed just four in the second half. France, which featured eight WNBA players on its roster, was playing in its first gold-medal game after taking an early lead.

“Everybody stepped up,” Gray said, pointing out the team effort involved in the victory. The match saw six lead changes and six ties, with a pivotal third quarter where the USA outscored France 30-12.

France’s Williams commented on the experience, stating, “We have a lot to be proud of,” remarking on their journey and the motivation they would carry forward.

The All-Tournament Team included Stewart, Young, Williams, Spain's Iyana Martin, and Germany's Leonie Fiebich. The victory significantly adds to the USA's dominant history in women's basketball, reaffirming their status as the standard of excellence in the sport.