The United States women’s basketball team triumphed over France 97-79 on September 13, 2026, clinching their fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup title and extending their historic dominance in the sport.
Why it matters: This victory solidifies Team USA's status as a powerhouse in women's basketball, marking their 12th World Cup title and a record 36 consecutive wins in the tournament.
The U.S. has now won nine straight World Cup finals, reinforcing their legacy in international women’s basketball.
This championship comes on the 25th anniversary weekend of the September 11 terrorist attacks, adding a layer of national significance to the victory.
Head coach Kara Lawson emphasized the importance of unity and pride in representing the United States during the tournament.
Driving the news: The final showcased a rematch of the closely contested 2024 Olympic gold medal game, where the U.S. narrowly defeated France 67-66.
France entered the match undefeated, having dismantled Germany 86-64 in the semifinals, and was aiming for revenge against the Americans.
Dominique Malonga scored 21 points for France, and Gabby Williams contributed 20 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the U.S. veterans.
The U.S. rallied from an early 14-point deficit, demonstrating resilience and strategic adjustments in the second half.
State of play: The game began with France taking an early lead, going up 31-17 in the second quarter.
Breanna Stewart led Team USA with 22 points and 10 rebounds, earning her third World Cup MVP award.
Jackie Young added 18 points, along with six rebounds and five assists, playing a key role in the comeback.
Caitlin Clark, in her first senior global championship, contributed 12 points off the bench, highlighting her potential as a future star.
The big picture: The victory reflects the depth and talent of the U.S. women's basketball program, which continues to evolve with new players joining seasoned veterans.
Stewart’s performance was particularly notable, as she became the first American since Lisa Leslie in 1998 to achieve a 20-10 game in a FIBA World Cup final.
The U.S. has maintained its winning streak since 2006, underscoring the consistency and strength of their program.
This championship adds to their trophy cabinet and serves as a source of inspiration for future generations of female athletes.
What they’re saying: Post-game reactions highlighted the emotional and cultural significance of the win.
“These teams are always continuing to be stronger, but we’re the standard,” Stewart said after the game.
Coach Lawson expressed pride in her team’s ability to unite and represent the U.S., especially during a poignant time in the country’s history.
“I felt the presence of the U.S. here, even though we are in Europe,” Lawson added, referencing the somber anniversary of 9/11.
By the numbers: The statistics from the final reveal the competitive nature of the game.
The U.S. outscored France 30-12 in the third quarter, a turning point that shifted momentum in their favor.
Team USA averaged a winning margin of 26 points across their six games in the tournament.
They faced tough competition throughout, including narrow victories against Italy and Spain in earlier rounds.
Between the lines: The cultural implications of the championship extend beyond the court.
The final took place in a year marked by political and social divisions in the U.S., making the team's success a unifying moment for many Americans.
Fans who had previously been divided over player rivalries found common ground in supporting Team USA.
Record-breaking TV ratings for the tournament underscored the growing interest and support for women’s basketball.
What’s next: Looking ahead, the U.S. women’s basketball team aims to continue their dominance as they prepare for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
The upcoming Olympic Games will serve as a platform for the team to defend their title and extend their legacy in women's sports.
With many young players gaining invaluable experience, the future looks bright for Team USA.
The federation is expected to focus on nurturing this new talent alongside established stars like Stewart and Young.