Women basketball Olympics

France Almost Pulls Off an Upset: The Miracle that Wasn’t in Women's Basketball!

In a nail-biting finale, the U.S. women's basketball team snatched their eighth straight Olympic gold from host France by just a point!

In an electrifying atmosphere at the Bercy Arena in Paris, the final showdown of the women’s basketball Olympic tournament took everyone's breath away. The United States and France faced off in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last second. What was expected to be a routine gold-medal win for the U.S. transformed into a heart-pounding battle, as the home team France delivered an unexpected challenge. Gabby Williams led the French squad with fierce determination, turning the arena into a cauldron of emotions as audience members dared to dream of an upset.

The game was a roller coaster ride of nail-biting moments, and the competitive spirit was palpable. With the U.S. holding the title as unprecedented eight-time gold medal defenders, they found themselves pushed to their limits. They led for most of the game but France wasn’t about to roll over. With every shot, rebound, and steal, the French team sent waves of hope through their supporters. The tension soared as the clock wound down, and it became apparent that anything could happen — but the glittering prize slipped away just in the knick of time.

In the closing seconds, A’ja Wilson and her teammates stayed focused, embodying the experience and skill that earned them their illustrious reputation. The game culminated in a gripping final play where the U.S. women triumphed with a razor-thin margin of just one point, finishing at 67 to 66. After a 32-year dominance in Olympic women’s basketball, this matchup proved to be one for the history books, with France making a statement on the global stage.

As the celebratory chants filled the air and medals were awarded, the debate sparked anew: Is the U.S. women's basketball team the best in Olympic history? With their win, they solidly cement their legacy in the sport, but the question of how far France can rise remains in the spotlight. Time will tell if they can reclaim glory, but one thing is certain: this matchup revived and ignited a passionate rivalry that fans will eagerly watch in the years to come.

Fun fact: The U.S. women's basketball team has been a powerhouse in the Olympics since women’s basketball was introduced to the Games in 1976, winning gold in 8 consecutive events! Meanwhile, this was France's first trip back to the Olympic gold medal game in women’s basketball since 2012 — a significant leap toward reclaiming their place among the elite. Get ready for their next showdown because if it's anything like this one, fans are in for a thrilling ride!