Team USA secured a spot in the gold medal game of the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup with a 76-66 victory over Spain in Berlin on September 12. After a tightly contested first three quarters, the U.S. team pulled away in the fourth quarter, holding Spain to just eight points. Breanna Stewart led the American side with 16 points and six rebounds, shooting an efficient 67% from the field, while Kahleah Copper and Jackie Young added 13 and 12 points respectively. Young’s consistent scoring across the tournament has placed her in the MVP conversation.

Spain fought hard behind the efforts of young stars Maria Conde and Iyana Martin, who each scored 17 points, with WNBA rookie Awa Fam also contributing nine points and eight rebounds. Despite these strong performances, Spain struggled to keep pace with the U.S. team’s late defensive intensity. Spain will now face Germany for the bronze medal, while the Americans advance to their fifth consecutive World Cup final, underscoring their dominance in international women’s basketball.

The championship game will feature a highly anticipated rematch between the U.S. and France, who are making their first World Cup final appearance. This matchup recalls the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Team USA narrowly defeated France 67-66 in a thrilling finish. France’s reputation for strong three-point shooting and quick, agile play makes them a formidable opponent. Their squad combines veteran leaders like Gabby Williams and Marine Johannes with promising young talent including Dominique Malonga and Janelle Salaun.

Both teams face a quick turnaround ahead of the final, which will air at 1:15 pm ET. The U.S. will need to improve their three-point shooting and reduce turnovers to counter France’s aggressive perimeter attack. With seasoned players such as Stewart, Copper, and Young pairing with energetic newcomers like Paige Bueckers and Caitlin Clark, Team USA looks poised to defend their title in a classic international showdown with France.