USA set up Women's Basketball World Cup final against France
The United States defeated Spain 76-66 in a tense semifinal to advance to the Women's Basketball World Cup final. France also progressed by beating hosts Germany 86-64, setting up a rematch of the 2024 Olympic gold medal game. Breanna Stewart led the Americans with 16 points.
The Americans' 35-game winning streak at the World Cup stretches back to a 2006 semifinal loss to Russia, underscoring their long dominance. Spain, who reached the 2014 final, forced a 58-all tie entering the fourth quarter before USA answered with a decisive 12-2 burst to secure victory in front of 12,650 spectators in Berlin.
France's Gabby Williams, born in the United States, delivered 22 points, five assists and four steals to power her team past host nation Germany. Germany had reached their first semifinal as a unified country, with East Germany last making the final four in 1967. Sunday's final marks France's first World Cup title match appearance.
This final could carry significance beyond the court, as it revisits the narrow 2024 Olympic gold medal game between the same nations. A competitive matchup may help grow women's basketball's international audience, particularly in Europe, where Germany's deep run as host could inspire new participation. The outcome may also shape narratives around American dominance, with France potentially emerging as a genuine long-term rival on the global stage.