The U.S. women’s basketball team faced their toughest challenge in 32 years, securing an eighth straight Olympic gold medal with a thrilling 67-66 victory over France. A’ja Wilson led the team with 21 points, while Gabby Williams’ last-second shot for France fell just short. This win extended the U.S. women’s unbeaten streak to 61 games and broke a tie with the American men’s program, which won seven consecutive golds from 1936 to 1968.
The women’s triumph was followed by the U.S. men’s basketball team defeating France to claim their fifth consecutive gold medal, marking the first time in Olympic history that both gold medal games featured the same two countries.
In the women’s game, the U.S. was ahead 67-64 with 3.9 seconds left after Kahleah Copper made two crucial free throws. France’s Marine Johannes passed to Gabby Williams, who hit a shot just inside the 3-point line over Breanna Stewart, but it wasn’t enough to close the gap. Wilson praised the U.S. team’s resilience and unity, which highlighted their determination and belief in each other.
The celebration included appearances by NBA stars LeBron James, Bam Adebayo, and Derrick White, as well as U.S. women’s basketball legends Lisa Leslie, Sue Bird, and Dawn Staley. The victory was particularly significant for Diana Taurasi, who earned her sixth consecutive gold medal, making her the most decorated basketball player in Olympic history.
The U.S. men’s basketball team continued their dominance, beating France to secure their fifth straight gold medal, showcasing the strength and depth of American basketball on the global stage.
