Team USA secured a spot in the FIBA Women's World Cup final after overcoming a late deficit to defeat Spain 76-66 in a hard-fought semifinal. The victory extended the Americans' World Cup winning streak, which began in 2006.
For three quarters, Spain maintained pressure and held a tie score of 58-58 heading into the final period. However, Team USA closed the game with an 18-8 run to secure the win. Breanna Stewart led the team with 16 points and 6 rebounds, while Kahleah Copper contributed 13 points and Jackie Young added 12 points, including 6 crucial points in the fourth quarter.
"Just continue to do the little things," Stewart said after the game, emphasizing the importance of fundamentals under pressure. "Honing in on the rebounding, making sure that we were getting to the offensive glass. Defensively, we picked up in the second half." She added, "This is going to be challenging, and obviously we have the biggest one tomorrow. But that’s what we’re here. We’re going for gold, and that’s what we’re going to do."
The Americans struggled offensively at times, shooting 40% from the field and making only 3 of 18 three-point attempts. They also committed 15 turnovers and recorded just 9 assists. Caitlin Clark, who came off the bench, finished with 1 point, 1 assist, and 1 rebound.
During halftime, with the U.S. holding a slim 39-36 lead, head coach Kara Lawson urged her team to be more precise in their defensive coverages and to manage turnovers while remaining calm and aggressive. Spain's Maria Conde and Iyana Martín each scored 17 points, but their team was limited to 8 points in the decisive fourth quarter.
Team USA will now face France in the final as they aim for their fifth consecutive World Cup championship. Stewart acknowledged France as "a really tough team."