In a dramatic finale to the women’s basketball tournament at Paris 2024, Team USA secured their eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal with a narrow 67-66 victory over France. The win extended their remarkable streak of 61 consecutive victories, but it was far from easy.
The game reached a heart-stopping climax when French guard Gabby Williams made a last-second shot that would have forced overtime—except her attempt was ruled a two-pointer, not a three. This crucial error allowed Team USA to escape with the victory despite trailing by 10 points in the third quarter.
Key Moments and Performers
Kahleah Copper and A’ja Wilson were instrumental in Team USA’s comeback, showcasing strong defense and clutch performances in the second half. The Americans, who had been dominant throughout the tournament, faced a fierce challenge from a determined French team. French coach Jean Aime Toupane’s strategic adjustments, including full-court pressure and aggressive defense, kept Team USA on edge.
Williams, who had dedicated her WNBA season to Olympic preparation, was left disappointed by the final call. “I knew right away it was a two-pointer; I’m disappointed,” she said. “I’m really happy with what we’ve done (with Team France). There is disappointment, but in a few hours, we will celebrate because what we did was incredible.”
Despite the intense pressure from the French crowd and the unexpected challenge, Team USA managed to clinch the gold. The team, which had been expected to dominate, showed resilience and adaptability. Wilson, named MVP of the tournament, delivered a standout performance with 21 points, 13 rebounds, and four blocks. “I stopped looking for the calls and leaned on my defense,” she said. “Playing through contact and staying poised was key.”
Team USA’s Legacy
The victory added another chapter to Team USA’s storied legacy in women’s basketball, featuring a blend of experienced veterans like Diana Taurasi, who won her sixth gold medal, and emerging stars such as Copper, Jackie Young, and Sabrina Ionescu. Despite the challenges of assembling the team during the WNBA season. They remained undefeated and showcased the depth and strength of USA Basketball.
Stewart reflected on the significance of the achievement: “The 61 wins in a row are impressive, but this one is special for our group. Representing the USA comes with biggest target on our back, and the fact that it’s eight straight golds is insane.”
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