US and France Set for Women's FIBA World Cup Final

The final matchup for the women’s FIBA World Cup is set, with France set to face the United States on Sunday, September 13, 2026. This follows France’s victory over Germany in the semifinals held on September 12, 2026, where they emerged as strong contenders. The United States, the four-time defending champions and favorites of the tournament, earned their place in the final after overcoming Spain in the other semifinal with a score of 76-66.

Breanna Stewart, who was part of the US Olympic team that narrowly defeated France by one point in Paris two years ago, emphasized that this upcoming game represents a fresh opportunity, independent of past encounters. "This is a completely new game and everybody has their own things that continue to motivate them," she remarked after the semifinal win. Stewart noted the importance of focusing solely on the victory at hand—the gold medal match in Berlin.

The dynamic of the teams has shifted significantly since the previous Olympic match, as many members of the US roster, including Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers, are competing for their first championship with the national team. In contrast, Stewart boasts three World Cup titles since her debut in 2014. Kahleah Copper, a key player from the last encounter with France, highlighted the evolution of both teams. "I mean, they’re a different team, we’re a different team. Two great teams gonna go at it head-to-head," she commented.

The US team has faced challenges during this World Cup, having won their matches by smaller margins than in previous championships. The closest match in the group stage was a mere three-point victory over Italy, while their semifinal victory over Spain was only by ten points. With an average win margin of 26 points across their last four medal-round games, Stewart acknowledged the need for the team to keep their focus inward, stressing the importance of supporting one another emotionally.

French players have equally deemed their Olympic loss as inconsequential to the upcoming final. "That was two years ago. There were different people involved, different players, so now we’re focusing on tomorrow and the here and now," stated Janelle Salaün. Marine Johannes expressed an awareness of the tough challenge ahead, mentioning that the French team has nothing to lose in this final. "We know they are a great team. We are playing with these players all season in WNBA," she affirmed.

France’s coach Jean-Aimé Toupane expressed pride in reaching their first women’s World Cup basketball final, highlighting the progress of French basketball worldwide. The encounter potentially marks a significant change in the sport's landscape, with France aiming for a gold medal after a long absence from medal standings since the inaugural tournament in 1953. Leila Lacan conveyed the team’s determination: "We didn’t come all this way for nothing – we’re here to win. We won’t settle for the silver medal, we’re going to go and get that gold."