BERLIN — The United States overcame a stunning early challenge from France to win the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, defeating France 97–79 in the championship game at Berlin Arena. The victory gave the Americans their fifth consecutive World Cup title and 12th overall.
France appeared ready to produce a major upset after racing out to a 14-point advantage in the first half. But the Americans gradually erased the deficit before taking complete control in the third quarter.
The decisive stretch came after halftime. The United States exploded for 30 points in the third quarter while holding France to only 12, turning a competitive final into a runaway American victory.
Stewart Leads the Way
Breanna Stewart was the centerpiece of the American attack, producing a game-high 22 points along with 10 rebounds and four assists.
Jackie Young added 18 points, while Kahleah Copper scored 15. Caitlin Clark contributed 12 points, providing an important spark as the Americans completed their comeback.
For France, Dominique Malonga led the way with 21 points, while Gabby Williams finished with 20 points and seven assists
The Turning Point
France’s fast start was the story of the opening half. A 21–2 French scoring run put the Americans under genuine pressure, and France eventually built its lead to 14.
But the defending champions refused to panic. The U.S. trimmed the margin to just two points by halftime, with Clark hitting a crucial three-pointer before the break.
Then came the third quarter.
The Americans attacked relentlessly, knocked down key three-pointers and tightened their defense. The 30–12 third-quarter advantage completely changed the game and gave the U.S. a substantial lead entering the fourth.
Team USA’s Championship Formula
The Americans shot 56% from the field and 42.1% from three-point range, while France shot 48% overall. The U.S. also had the depth and defensive intensity to wear France down as the game progressed.
Final Verdict
France deserves enormous credit for pushing the defending champions to the limit and reaching its first-ever Women’s World Cup final. But once the United States found its rhythm, the championship experience and depth of the American roster proved decisive.
For Team USA, the victory extends an extraordinary run of dominance in the Women’s World Cup. The Americans have now won five straight championships, with their World Cup winning streak stretching back to 2006.
WORLD CHAMPIONS: UNITED STATES 🇺🇸
Final: USA 97, France 79
Venue: Berlin Arena, Berlin, Germany
Attendance: 12,233
