USA women's basketball team loses top spot in World Cup power rankings
After a lackluster win over Italy, the USA women's national team dropped to second in the World Cup power rankings, overtaken by France. Quarterfinal games begin September 10.
At the 2026 Women's Basketball World Cup, the United States defeated Italy on Sunday but scored just 55 points — the lowest total by any team in a World Cup game in 55 years, including since the three-point line was introduced in 1984. The squad, coached by Cara Lousone, is described as talent-rich but lacking balance between veteran and younger players, which has prevented the team from fully leveraging its individual strengths.
Following that performance, the USA slipped from first to second place in the World Cup power rankings, with France — the Paris Olympics runner-up — moving into the top spot. FIBA columnist Paul Nilsen credits the French team's strength to Gabby Williams, who leads especially on defense, alongside the continued improvement of Dominika Malonga, the play of Marine Johannes, and the contagious energy of Leila Lacan. According to the columnist, France has the potential to contend for the title, though it still needs to prove it can handle heightened expectations as the tournament progresses.
Tournament format
The 16-team group stage concluded on September 7, with group winners already securing quarterfinal berths. Tuesday and Wednesday feature additional games in which second- and third-placed teams compete for the remaining four quarterfinal spots. Quarterfinals are scheduled for September 10 — the USA will face the winner of the Hungary-Japan matchup, while France will meet the winner between Puerto Rico and China. Semifinals follow on September 12, with the medal games set for September 13.
