Sunday’s showdown in women’s basketball was a nail-biter as the United States faced off against France for the gold medal.
In a thrilling finish, dual citizen Gabby Williams managed to hit a buzzer-beater, but it was ruled a two-point shot, leading to a nail-biting 67-66 victory for the U.S.
The average margin in gold medal games has typically been 23 points before this match, but France challenged the U.S. like never before, yet the American women held their ground to claim their eighth straight gold medal, maintaining their Olympic dominance since 1992.
The atmosphere at Bercy Arena in Paris was electric and somewhat hostile, but the Americans remained unfazed, showcasing their resilience.
A’ja Wilson was a standout performer, scoring 21 points and grabbing 13 rebounds for a solid double-double. However, it was Kahleah Copper who shone brightest in the fourth quarter, contributing 12 crucial points off the bench when her teammates needed it most. Kelsey Plum also pitched in with 12 points.
France relied on their entire roster, with Williams leading the way for them with 19 points, while both Valeriane Ayayi and Marine Johannes added nine each.
The game was tightly contested from the start, and it will certainly be remembered as an Olympic classic. The Americans took an early lead 15-9 in the first quarter, but France responded by edging the second quarter 16-10, setting the stage for a tied halftime score.
The U.S. managed to regain a two-point lead by the end of the third quarter amidst a back-and-forth battle that featured 11 lead changes and six ties. In the final minutes, Jackie Young fouled out, finishing with just two points and four rebounds.
With 2:19 left, Plum’s free throws gave the U.S. a 60-57 advantage. The two teams strategically exchanged scores, but a blockbuster block by Breanna Stewart on a three-point attempt sealed the deal for the Americans. Wilson collected the rebound, drawing a foul and extending the lead to 63-59 after making one of her free throws.
Despite Marine Johannes closing the gap with two free throws, Williams’s three-pointer brought France within one point with just five seconds remaining. Ultimately, it was Copper’s clutch free throws that confirmed the win for the American women, solidifying their place at the top once again.