US fight off spirited France to win 12th World Cup

Berlin witnessed the United States clinch their record-extending 12th Women's Basketball World Cup title, defeating a tenacious France side with a final score of 97-79. The American team, perennial favorites, had not lost a World Cup match since 2006, but they were initially below par in the tournament. However, they made a remarkable comeback in the second half, outscoring the Europeans 30-12 in the third quarter.

Breanna Stewart, the team's veteran, led the charge with a game-high 22 points, along with 10 rebounds and four assists, becoming the first player to win MVP twice. The coach, Kara Lawson, hailed Stewart as the "greatest winner" the team had seen. Jackie Young contributed with four crucial threes and 18 points, extending the US's winning streak to 36 consecutive matches.

Despite a shaky start, the US team turned things around, committing 16 turnovers and silencing the pro-France crowd. France, making their debut in the World Cup final, sought revenge for their narrow 2024 Paris Olympics loss to the US. However, they struggled to maintain composure and committed numerous mistakes. Gabby Williams scored impressively with 16 points in the first half, but her contributions dwindled afterward.