Team USA Defeats France 97-79 for Fifth Consecutive FIBA Women's World Cup Title

Breanna Stewart delivered an outstanding performance, scoring a game-high 22 points and recording 10 rebounds. Jackie Young made history by being the first player to achieve 15 points, five assists, and five rebounds in a World Cup final.

The turning point came in the second half, where Team USA's defensive intensity increased while France's shooting faltered. France shot 56% from three-point range in the first half but only managed to convert three in the second half. Gabby Williams was a standout for France with 16 first-half points, but she was held to just four in the second half.

In a series of updates from the game's progression, Stewart was named the World Cup MVP, becoming the first player in basketball history to win the award twice, having previously won in 2018.

The matchup highlighted the shrinking gap between the United States and international teams, particularly with the emerging talent in France, which boasts promising young players such as Dominique Malonga and Leïla Lacan.

Throughout the game, USA exhibited dominant play after halftime, outscoring France 54-24. Stewart shot 7-of-10 from the field and 8-of-9 from the free-throw line, further solidifying her legacy as one of the sport's all-time greatest winners.

Notably, Team USA's effective ball movement led to 21 assists on 36 field goals, while their shooting percentages stood at 62% for two-point shots and 42% for threes. France struggled to find consistent scoring after the break, with Marine Johannès only contributing five points.

At halftime, France led 45-43, capitalizing on Team USA's defensive lapses, particularly from beyond the arc. Williams had been instrumental for France, but USA's adjustments helped limit their scoring options in the second half.

Overall, the match showcased Team USA's depth and resilience, positioning them firmly atop women's basketball for the fifth consecutive World Cup.