USA women's basketball team grabs Gold in the Finals

The USA Basketball Women’s 3×3 National Team featuring LSU players Mikaylah Williams and MiLaysia Fulwiley defeated Australia, 21-20, on a clutch, game-winning 2-pointer by Williams to win the gold medal at the 2026 FIBA 3×3 World Cup.

Fulwiley, Williams, Joyce Edwards, and Sahara Williams advanced to the final after beating Azerbaijan 19-18 in overtime.

Earlier in the week, the U.S. women defeated Australia 21-18 in pool play.

At 6:40, the U.S. held a 7-3 lead heading into a media timeout. The game remained tight until the second media timeout with the U.S. still on top, 12-9, with 3:48 left. Fulwiley hit a big two-pointer to give the USA a 15-10 lead with just over three minutes remaining.

After back-to-back 2-pointers, Australia tied the game with 1:49 remaining. Fulwiley answered with another two, putting the USA up 19-17. Australia rallied, running off three straight points to take the lead, 20-19, with under a minute remaining.

As time wound down, Mikaylah nailed her second game-winner of the day to give the U.S. women their fourth gold medal. Mikaylah was named MVP of the tournament. She joins Cameron Brink (2023) as the only other American woman to win the award.

Over 10 editions of the FIBA 3×3 World Cup, the American women have won five times, including four titles. Including this year, the USA has four gold medals (2026, 2023, 2014, 2012) and a bronze (2016).

Throughout the tournament, Mikaylah Williams consistently delivered standout performances. In critical moments, her clutch shots helped lead the team to victory. She was named MVP for her exceptional play and leadership on the court.