**USA Defeats France to Win 12th FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup**
In a thrilling final held in Berlin, Germany, the United States women's basketball team triumphed over France with a score of 97-79, securing their 12th FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup title on September 13, 2026. This victory not only extends the USA's record in the tournament but also marks their continued dominance in women’s basketball, having not lost a World Cup match since 2006.
The final showcased a competitive spirit, with France taking an early lead. They ended the first quarter with a three-point advantage and built a 14-point lead midway through the second quarter. However, the Americans, known for their resilience and skill, fought back just before halftime. Key contributions from Jackie Young, who hit two quick three-pointers, and Caitlin Clark, who added another three, helped reduce France's lead to just two points at the break.
Despite a shaky start to the tournament, the USA team demonstrated their championship pedigree in the second half. They outscored France 30-12 in the third quarter, effectively turning the game in their favor. Veteran forward Breanna Stewart led the charge, finishing the game with a game-high 22 points. Young also played a pivotal role, contributing 18 points, including four critical three-pointers that helped shift the momentum.
France, competing in their first-ever World Cup final, had high hopes of avenging their narrow loss to the USA in the gold medal match at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Gabby Williams, the French captain and standout player, scored 16 points in the first half but struggled to maintain her performance, finishing with just four additional points in the second half. The French team, which had previously dominated their opponents throughout the tournament, found it challenging to keep pace with the Americans as the game progressed.
The USA's victory solidified their status as perennial favorites in international women’s basketball. Their ability to adapt and perform under pressure was evident as they overcame a determined French side. With this win, the USA women's basketball team has now achieved an impressive 36 consecutive victories in World Cup play.
In a parallel match earlier in the day, Spain claimed the bronze medal by defeating Germany 81-58, providing a consolation for their narrow semifinal loss to the USA. The Spanish team displayed a strong performance, highlighting the growing competitiveness in women’s basketball on the international stage.
As the tournament concludes, the USA women's basketball team once again cements its legacy in the sport, proving that they remain a formidable force in global basketball.