By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Team USA defeated France 97–79 in the 2026 Women’s Basketball World Cup final to claim the gold medal, overcoming a two-point deficit at halftime with a devastating second-half performance that completely changed the course of the game.
France looked in control during the opening 20 minutes, heading into the locker room with a 45–43 lead. But whatever was said in the American dressing room at halftime clearly worked. The United States came out with renewed intensity after the break, turning a tight final into a one-sided contest in just one quarter.
The turning point came in the third period. Team USA outscored France 30–12, producing a relentless run that transformed the game and put the Americans firmly in command. France struggled to match the pace and physicality of their opponents, while the United States found another gear on both ends of the court.
By the final quarter, the outcome was already effectively decided. The American lead continued to grow, reaching 27 points at 86–59 before France managed to reduce the deficit slightly in the closing minutes. The final score, 97–79, confirmed a commanding victory for the United States and another gold medal on the biggest stage.
Breanna Stewart led the American charge with an outstanding all-around performance. The star forward finished the final with 22 points, 10 rebounds and four assists, delivering when her team needed her most. Jackie Young was also crucial to the victory, adding 18 points and providing another major offensive threat.
France found its best performances through Dominique Malonga and Gabbie Williams. Malonga led the French attack with 21 points, while Williams added 20, but their individual efforts were not enough to stop the American comeback after halftime.
Photo credit: FIBA
Make 
Your Preferred Basketball Source.
Add Eurohoops to Google