Last time USA didn't win FIBA Women's World Cup: Revisiting 2006 U.S. team that was upset by Russia
Here's a look at the last time the Americans failed to take the stand with gold dangling around their throats.
The United States women's basketball team enjoyed a streak of gold medal victories in FIBA Women's World Cup, topping the podium in each of the last four tournaments. However, their run of dominance was interrupted in 2006 when they were upset by Russia in the semifinals. Team USA, led by Anne Donovan, had won gold in each of their last four appearances at the tournament, cementing their status as the competition's top team.
Their journey began with a sweep of China and Nigeria, followed by a 34-point victory over Lithuania in the quarterfinals. In the semifinals, they faced Russia, a team composed largely of players from the Eastern European domestic league. Russia opened up a 10-point lead in the first quarter, which grew to 20 points by the third quarter.
Despite a late comeback effort led by Diana Taurasi and Candace Parker, Russia emerged victorious, securing the biggest upset in women's basketball history. The U.S. team managed to secure a bronze medal finish, but the result was a letdown given their high expectations heading into the tournament.
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