The Team USA women’s basketball team secured their eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal on Sunday, edging out host nation France with a nail-biting 67-66 victory in the final at Bercy Arena in Paris. A’ja Wilson, who earned MVP honors for her 21-point, 13-rebound performance, had a memorable post-game moment with NBA stars LeBron James and Bam Adebayo, who were courtside to cheer on Team USA.
After the hard-fought win, James and Adebayo shook hands with Wilson, celebrating the victory together. The men’s team, fresh off their own triumph over France with a 98-87 win the previous day, had also claimed their fifth straight Olympic gold. Both U.S. teams faced France in their respective gold medal games, showcasing the nation’s basketball dominance.
Sunday’s victory extended the U.S. women’s Olympic winning streak to an incredible 61 games, dating back to 1992. The game was anything but easy, as the Americans had to overcome a tough French defense and the energy of a passionate home crowd.
A’ja Wilson Delivers Double-Double in Gold Medal Thriller
The game was a challenge from the start for Team USA. The U.S. struggled to establish their offense early, stifled by France’s physical defense. The first half ended in a tense 25-25 tie, with both teams battling for control. France briefly took the lead before halftime, but the Americans managed to level the score just before the buzzer.
In the third quarter, Team USA faced a significant test, falling behind by as many as 10 points. However, they rallied behind key three-pointers and clutch free throws from Kelsey Plum. Despite losing Jackie Young, who fouled out in the fourth quarter after being a crucial scorer in previous games, the U.S. held on to secure the victory.
The game’s outcome hinged on a dramatic final moment when France’s Gabby Williams hit a long-range jumper at the buzzer. Initially, it seemed the shot could send the game into overtime, but it was ruled a two-pointer instead of a three-pointer, allowing Team USA to escape with a one-point win.
Team USA’s eight consecutive Olympic gold medals represent the longest streak in basketball history. France, making their first appearance in the Olympic gold medal game since 2012, put up a valiant fight but ultimately took home the silver medal. Meanwhile, Australia claimed the bronze by defeating Belgium in the third-place game.
