BERLIN — France secured its first-ever spot in the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup Final, defeating host Germany 86-64 in the semi-finals on Saturday. The victory ends France's 73-year medal drought in the tournament, guaranteeing them a podium finish for the first time since the inaugural event in 1953.
Forward Gabby Williams earned the TCL Player of the Game award with 22 points, five rebounds, five assists and four steals. She shot 8-of-12 from the field, including 2-of-5 from three-point range, and 4-of-5 from the free throw line. Williams surpassed FIBA Hall of Famer Celine Dumerc with her 187 career points in the Women's World Cup, making her France's third all-time leading scorer in the competition.
Janelle Salaun added 14 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double. Marine Johannes contributed 13 points and Valeriane Ayayi scored 10.
France's 22-point margin of victory was the largest by any team other than the United States in a Women's World Cup semi-final. The French controlled the ball throughout, committing just seven turnovers compared to Germany's 25 turnovers.
The semi-final drew 12,650 fans to Berlin Arena. FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup Ambassadors Sue Bird and Pau Gasol attended, along with basketball legends Dirk Nowitzki and Dennis Schroder.
France will face either the United States or Spain in the championship game scheduled for Sept. 13. Germany will compete for the bronze medal against the loser of the USA-Spain semi-final.
