The United States won its eighth consecutive Olympic women's basketball title, beating host France 67-66 on the final day of the tournament in Paris.
After Kalia Cofer made two free throws, the U.S. went ahead 67-64 with 3.9 seconds left.
Marin Johannes carried the ball up the court to Gaby Williams, who picked it up just inside the three-point line and slammed it over the outstretched arms of Brenna Thruwert for the ultimate lead.
There was a brief delay before the referee signaled a two-pointer, after which the atmosphere was celebratory and the Americans exchanged many hugs, but the French players stood there, sadly unable to score in the fast-paced game.
“It's really amazing. The dynasty we've built at USAB is really amazing,” said A'ja Wilson, who scored 21 points. “And I'm really proud of the resilience our team has shown. We may have made mistakes, but we came through. I'm really blessed to be able to say I'm a two-time gold medalist.”
“Gabby hit some great shots at the end. They were tough shots,” Wilson continued. “We knew in the locker room what we had, and we leaned on each other and talked to each other and believed in each other, and that's the best part.”
The U.S. players celebrated their victory with celebrities sitting courtside, including men's basketball greats LeBron James, Bam Adebayo and Derrick White, as well as greats Lisa Leslie, Sue Bird and Dawn Staley.
The win gave Diana Taurasi her sixth consecutive gold medal, making her the most-winning basketball player in Olympic history, surpassing longtime teammate Sue Bird (five).
“It's sad that they fought. They've been working hard for two months,” said France coach Jean-Aim Toufan. “If you look at what they showed tonight, it's amazing. I salute this team.
“They gave a lot, and in the end it was the little things, but that's how the sport goes.”
The U.S. trailed China by one gold medal heading into the final, but with more silver medals (44 to 27), they knew a win would put them atop the standings.
They also finished first in overall medal count (126), ahead of China (91) and Team GB (65). France won 64 medals at home.
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