Team USA rallies past France to win fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s World Cup

Team USA overcame a 14‑point deficit to defeat France 97‑79 on Sunday, securing its fifth straight FIBA Women’s World Cup title. The victory gave the United States its 12th World Cup championship and extended its tournament winning streak to 36 consecutive games; the last American loss in the competition came against Russia in the 2006 semifinals. France dominated the early stages, building a 21‑2 lead that featured Gabby Williams before the U.S. began its comeback. A three‑pointer from Caitlin Clark narrowed the gap to two points by halftime. After the break, Kahleah Copper and Jackie Young hit long‑range shots to put the United States ahead, and another deep three from Clark pushed the American lead to 19 points in the fourth quarter. Breanna Stewart paced all scorers with 22 points and nine rebounds, while Jackie Young contributed 18 points and five assists. Kahleah Copper added 15 points, and Clark finished with 12 points and four assists. The United States also outrebounded France 36‑27, which helped neutralize France’s strong start and seal the win in the second half. The triumph marks another chapter in the United States’ sustained global dominance. France, appearing in its first World Cup final, captured the silver medal after beating Germany 86‑64 in the semifinals. Earlier on Sunday, Spain defeated Germany 81‑58 to claim the bronze medal. With this fifth consecutive title, the U.S. ties the record set by the Soviet Union, which won five straight World Cups from 1959 through 1975.