USA win fifth consecutive title at FIBA U19 World Championship for Women

USA continued their dominance in the FIBA U19 World Championship for Women by winning their fifth consecutive gold (and sixth in seven) at the tournament with a final win over France at the 2013 championship in Klaipeda, Lithuania on Sunday. The American girls were undefeated in the tournament - which began back on July 18th - and dominated France with a 61-28 victory in the finale.

At the heart of their memorable final performance was their lock down defense in the second half, where USA only held France to eight points. Breanna Stewart led the way with 16 points and nine rebounds.

Stewart was also named MVP of the tournament, following up as her finish in the All Tournament team at the competition two years ago in Chile as well.

The final was America's second win over France in the tournament, after edging them 69-63 in the Eighth-Final round stage earlier.

On Sunday, the Bronze Medal game was also held between Australia and Spain, a close-fought contest as Australia made a strong second half comeback to edge Spain 73-68. Carley Mijovic (25) and Stephanie Tolbot (22) led the way for the Australians, while Leticia Romero Gonzalez had 16 points for Spain.

A day earlier, France had edged Spain 62-58 in a thrilling semi-final using a balanced scoring attack and overcoming 27 points and 10 rebounds by Spain's Astou Ndour. In the second semi-final, USA had no trouble cruising past Australia 77-54 behind 23 points and eight rebounds by Breanna Stewart.

Final Standings

1. USA
2. France
3. Australia
4. Spain
5. China

All Tournament Team

Breanna Stewart (USA)
Olivia Epoupa (France)
Jamie Weisner (Canada)
Stephanie Talbot (Australia)
Astou Ndour (Spain)