The United States narrowly defeated France 67-66 on Sunday to secure their unprecedented eighth consecutive women’s Olympic basketball gold, extending their winning streak at the tournament to 61 games.
A’ja Wilson led the American team with 21 points, along with 13 rebounds and four blocks. The victory marked the U.S.’s 10th overall gold in women’s basketball, despite a dramatic final moment where France’s Gabby Williams attempted a buzzer-beater. Williams’ shot, which was just inside the three-point line, counted for only two points, sealing the win for the U.S.
Wilson described the tense second half as a blur, reflecting on the team’s resilience. Kelsey Plum and Kahleah Copper added 12 points each off the bench for the U.S., while Williams scored 19 points for France and expressed her awareness that her final shot wasn’t enough.
The victory not only secured gold but also set a record for the most consecutive Olympic gold medals in any team sport, surpassing the previous record held by the U.S. men’s basketball team with seven consecutive wins from 1936 to 1968.
U.S. coach Cheryl Reeve praised the game as “absolutely incredible” and highlighted the challenge of winning gold. Diana Taurasi, at 42, earned her sixth Olympic gold medal, surpassing Sue Bird.
LeBron James, alongside teammates Bam Adebayo and Derrick White, supported the U.S. women from courtside after their own gold medal win against France the previous day.
Frantic Finish
The game began with a low-scoring first quarter where France managed only nine points, and the U.S. led by six. France, led by Williams, closed the gap with a three-pointer early in the second period, tying the game at 20-20. Marine Fauthoux’s dramatic three-pointer with the shot clock expiring sent the crowd into a frenzy, but Napheesa Collier’s putback tied the game at 25 at halftime.
France started the third quarter with a 10-point run, but the U.S. responded to lead 45-43 heading into the final quarter. Wilson struggled initially but contributed crucial points, as did Plum with key three-pointers. The U.S. managed to maintain a narrow lead, with Copper’s late free throws proving pivotal.
France had a final chance to force overtime but fell short when Fauthoux’s last attempt was off target. Wilson’s free throw extended the U.S. lead, and despite Williams’ late three-pointer, the U.S. held on for the win.
Williams reflected on the game with a mix of disappointment and pride, noting the historic significance of the match.
