Team USA's dominance on the international basketball stage continued Sunday as the Americans clinched their fifth consecutive FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup gold medal, defeating France 97-79 in the final. This marks the seventh World Cup title for the U.S. in the last eight tournaments.
The victory did not come without a fight, as the U.S. trailed in the first half. However, a commanding 30-12 run in the third quarter shifted the momentum and solidified their path to victory.
Breanna Stewart led the charge for the Americans, recording a double-double with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Jackie Young contributed significantly with 18 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Caitlin Clark provided a spark off the bench, playing approximately 12 minutes and scoring crucial baskets. Her buzzer-beating shot before halftime narrowed the deficit to two points, and a key three-pointer in the fourth quarter helped put France on its heels. Clark finished the game with 12 points and three assists.
FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis has acknowledged the impact of emerging young players like Clark participating in the World Cup for the first time.