U.S. briefing
U.S. women beat Spain 76-66 to reach World Cup final against France
Breanna Stewart scored 16 points as the United States advanced to the women's FIBA World Cup final, moving within one win of a fifth straight title.
The United States beat Spain 76-66 on Saturday to reach the women's FIBA World Cup championship game against France. Breanna Stewart scored 16 points and Kahleah Copper added 13 as the Americans secured their 35th consecutive World Cup victory.
The teams were tied at 58 entering the fourth quarter before the Americans scored 12 of the first 14 points of the period. That run produced a 70-60 lead with 5:20 remaining, and Spain never got closer than eight points afterward. The United States made 27 of its 35 free throws.
The final will be a rematch of the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medal game, which the Americans won by one point. The United States is seeking a fifth consecutive World Cup title, which would match the former Soviet Union for the most championships in succession.