In a thrilling semifinal match at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the French women’s basketball team secured a spot in the gold medal game by defeating Belgium 81-75 in overtime on August 9. This victory sets up a historic final against the United States, who earlier defeated Australia 85-64, extending their Olympic winning streak to 60 games.The French team’s path to the final was far from easy. They had to overcome a 15-point deficit in the third quarter and withstand a late surge from Belgium, including a crucial three-pointer by Emma Meesseman that forced overtime. Gabby Williams emerged as the hero for France, scoring 18 points, with 9 coming in the extra period. Iliana Rupert also made a significant contribution, hitting a key three-pointer in overtime.For France, this marks their first appearance in the Olympic final since 2012, where they won silver. They are now assured of improving upon their bronze medal finish from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. As French coach Jean-Aimé Toupane stated, ‘The players have shown great resilience and determination, and I am proud of them’.The United States, led by Breanna Stewart’s 16 points, continued their dominance in women’s basketball. They are aiming for an unprecedented eighth consecutive gold medal, which would surpass the U.S. men’s basketball team’s record of seven straight golds from 1936 to 1968.The stage is now set for a historic weekend in French basketball. Both the men’s and women’s teams will face their American counterparts in the gold medal games. As noted in French media, ‘This will be the biggest weekend in French basketball history!’.The women’s basketball final between France and the United States is scheduled for Sunday, August 11, at 16:30 Moscow time (9:30 a.m. ET), serving as the final event of the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Key points
- France defeated Belgium 81-75 in overtime to reach the women’s basketball Olympic final.
- The United States continued their Olympic dominance, beating Australia 85-64 in their semifinal.
- Both French men’s and women’s basketball teams will face the USA in their respective gold medal games.
- The women’s basketball final on August 11 will be the last event of the Paris 2024 Olympics.
