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U.S. Wins Fifth Straight World Cup, 97-79 Over France

By Drooid · Sep 14, 2026, 2:03 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

The United States beat France 97-79 to claim its fifth straight World Cup title in Berlin.
Breanna Stewart earned MVP with 22 points, 10 rebounds and four assists.
Stewart tied Sue Bird for most World Cup golds, four each.
The U.S. erased a 14-point early gap, trailing 45-43 at halftime before a 30-12 third-quarter surge.
Jackie Young was player of the game with 18 points, six rebounds and five assists.

History

Historical Context

In 1996, the United States women's basketball team captured its first Olympic gold in Atlanta, defeating Brazil 111–87, sparking increased funding for women's sports. Coach Tara VanDerveer guided the roster, which featured Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, and a 24-point victory margin while generating $5 million in sponsorships. That breakthrough mirrors today's U.S. women's team erasing a 14-point halftime deficit to win 97–79 over France in Berlin, mirroring that resilience. The 1996 triumph cemented a legacy of sustained dominance, now reflected in Breanna Stewart’s record-tying fifth World Cup gold, signaling ongoing investment in youth programs.

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Story summary

The United States beat France 97-79 to claim its fifth straight World Cup title in Berlin.
Breanna Stewart earned MVP with 22 points, 10 rebounds and four assists.
Stewart tied Sue Bird for most World Cup golds, four each.
The U.S. erased a 14-point early gap, trailing 45-43 at halftime before a 30-12 third-quarter surge.
Jackie Young was player of the game with 18 points, six rebounds and five assists.

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