FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup Final: USA vs France Showdown 2026

Claire Hodges
FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup Final: USA vs France Showdown
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The FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup final between USA and France is set to be a thrilling showdown, with both teams boasting incredible WNBA talent. As the basketball world turns its eyes to the championship game, fans are eager to see if the USA can maintain their dominance or if France can pull off an upset led by former UConn star Gabby Williams.

USA vs France: A Clash of WNBA Stars

The 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup final features a fascinating subplot: eight French players currently ply their trade in the WNBA, including Gabby Williams, who was born in Nevada and excelled at Connecticut before being picked fourth overall in the 2018 WNBA Draft. Williams, now with the Golden State Valkyries, is averaging a career-high 14.3 points per game in the WNBA and has been even more impressive in this tournament, putting up 18.4 points per game on torrid shooting splits: 56.9% from the field, 48.4% from three, and 91.7% from the free-throw line.


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Her teammate with the Valkyries, Janelle Salaun, is the second-leading scorer for Golden State and third on the French team behind Williams and Marine Johannes of the New York Liberty. Dominique Malonga, a 20-year-old center who plays for Seattle, is averaging 10 points and leads the team inside with 6.6 rebounds and one block per game. Only one French player, Romane Bernies, plays professionally in France, highlighting the global reach of the WNBA.

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Key Players to Watch

  • Gabby Williams (France): The dynamic guard/forward is France's go-to scorer and a threat from anywhere on the court.
  • Caitlin Clark (USA): The rookie sensation has had a solid tournament, averaging 7 points in 20.6 minutes per game, but her shooting percentages (29.4% FG, 22.7% 3PT) leave room for improvement.
  • Breanna Stewart (USA): The veteran leader and MVP candidate is expected to carry the load for the Americans.
  • Marine Johannes (France): The New York Liberty sharpshooter provides outside shooting and playmaking.

Statistical Comparison: USA vs France

Category USA France
Points per game (team) 92.4 85.6
Field goal % 48.2% 46.8%
3-point % 36.5% 38.1%
Rebounds per game 42.3 39.7
Assists per game 25.1 22.4

While the USA holds a slight edge in most statistical categories, France's proficiency from beyond the arc could keep them in the game. The French have shown they can compete with the best, as evidenced by their narrow loss to the USA in the 2024 Olympic final, where Williams' last-second shot narrowly missed forcing overtime.

What to Expect in the Final

Expect a high-scoring, intense battle. The USA will look to impose their will inside with Stewart and A'ja Wilson, while France will rely on Williams' all-around game and Johannes' shooting. The key matchup may be Caitlin Clark against France's perimeter defenders; if Clark can find her stroke, it could be a long night for France. Conversely, if Williams continues her stellar play, France has a real chance to dethrone the Americans.


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FAQ

When is the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup final?

The final is scheduled for [date] at [time] and will be broadcast live on [network]. Check local listings for exact timing.

How can I watch the USA vs France final?

The game will be televised on ESPN in the United States and various international broadcasters. Streaming options are available through the ESPN app and other platforms.

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Who are the key players for France?

Gabby Williams, Marine Johannes, Janelle Salaun, and Dominique Malonga are the players to watch for France.

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Claire Hodges

Author

Claire Hodges

Claire Hodge is a seasoned writer and the head of content for the "Celebrities & Culture" magazine at Grand Goldman. With a background in journalism and a passion for Pop Culture / Fashion, she brings a unique blend of expertise and creativity. Her insightful articles and in-depth interviews have made her a bold voice in the industry, known for her ability to capture the idiosyncrasies of celebrity lives and cultural trends.


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