The U.S. women’s basketball team continued its reign of success at the Olympics, capturing its 10th gold medal on Sunday after a thrilling 67-66 victory over France.
A’ja Wilson had 21 points and 13 rebounds for the U.S., which extended its unbeaten streak to 61 consecutive games. The Americans have not lost at the Summer Olympics since 1992 in Barcelona.
France pushed the U.S. right from the start with some stingy defence in the first half, with both nations tied 25-25.
With the victory, Diana Taurasi earned a sixth consecutive gold medal, making her the most decorated basketball player in Olympic history. She surpassed longtime teammate Sue Bird, who won five during her career.
Team USA cruised to the gold-medal game after beating Australia 85-64 in the semifinals to reach its eighth consecutive Olympic championship.
It is also another sweep of the basketball tournament for Team USA after Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and LeBron James led the men’s team to its fifth consecutive gold medal on Saturday.
Australia beat Belgium earlier Sunday to claim the women’s bronze medal with Ezi Magbegor leading the way with 30 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks. It was Australia’s first podium finish since 2012.
