When the United States needed her most, Kahleah Copper came through.
The U.S. women's national basketball extended its remarkable Olympics gold medal streak to eight, defeating France, 67-66, in the final of the 2024 tournament to cap off another perfect Summer Games. With the win, the United States also increased its unbeaten streak to 61 games at the Olympic stage.
France put up an exceptional fight, getting out to a lead in the first half. But it was Copper's play off the bench, especially in the third quarter, that helped propel the Americans to victory. She finished tied for second on the team in scoring for the game with 12 points, added five rebounds, and was a perfect 6-for-6 from the free throw line.
There were many ways to describe Copper's showing Sunday — clutch, elite, effective. But Team USA star and Olympics tournament MVP A'Ja Wilson had the perfect response for Copper that was short and to the point.
"That b—."
“One word for Kahleah Copper today?”
— Tyler DeLuca (@TylerDeLuca) August 11, 2024
“That b*tch” - A’ja Wilson 😭😭😭#Olympics pic.twitter.com/4lHckwxwe4
Wilson's two words and stare at the camera said it all — Copper did what the team needed out of her and played a critical role. She started the Olympics with six minutes against Japan in the group stage opener and a DNP against Belgium, but Copper carved out a spot in the lineup and helped lead the Americans to victory.
Wilson was stellar for the United States as well, earning MVP honors after averaging 18.7 points and 10.2 rebounds per game.
Here is more on Copper and Wilson's performances against France in the 2024 Olympic gold medal final.
2024 PARIS OLYMPICS
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Kahleah Copper stats today vs. France
- Minutes: 22
- Points: 12
- Rebounds: 5
- Assists: 2
- Steals: 1
- Blocks: 0
- TOs: 0
- FGs: 3-for-8
A'ja Wilson stats today vs. France
- Minutes: 33
- Points: 25
- Rebounds: 13
- Assists: 2
- Steals: 1
- Blocks: 4
- TOs: 3
- FGs: 6-for-14
