Young U.S. Squad Avenges 2023 Loss and Secures Direct Berth to 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup
SANTIAGO (Chile) – The United States reclaimed the FIBA Women’s AmeriCup crown, defeating reigning champions Brazil 92-84 in an intense final at the Centro de Deportes Colectivos in Santiago, Chile. With this victory, the U.S. captured its fifth continental title and earned an automatic berth to the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
The win marks the Americans’ third Women’s AmeriCup title in the last four tournaments, further solidifying their dominance in the region.
Turning Point: A Fourth-Quarter Surge
Although the U.S. controlled much of the game through relentless pressure and a fast-paced offense, it was an early fourth-quarter run that proved decisive. Head coach Kara Lawson’s squad launched an 11-3 spurt, taking a 76-69 lead with just over four minutes left. This defensive stand halted Brazil’s momentum and shifted the game firmly in favor of the Americans.
In the final moments, Brazil briefly threatened with a clutch three-pointer from Damiris Dantas, narrowing the gap to five points. However, Hannah Hidalgo’s calm execution at the free-throw line sealed the gold for Team USA.
Player of the Game: Mikayla Blakes Shines
Mikayla Blakes delivered a standout performance, pouring in 27 points— the most by any U.S. player in the tournament since 2003—along with 6 rebounds and 2 steals. The 19-year-old wing consistently led her team throughout the competition and was rightfully named the Tournament MVP.
Meanwhile, point guard Hannah Hidalgo added 16 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals. Both Blakes and Hidalgo earned spots on the All-Star Five, joined by Brazil’s Damiris Dantas and Kamilla Cardoso, as well as Canada’s Syla Swords.
Brazil’s Star Effort Falls Short
Despite the loss, Damiris Dantas etched her name into the record books with 35 points— the highest single-game scoring output in Women’s AmeriCup history (since 2003). She also contributed 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Kamilla Cardoso chipped in with 19 points, though foul trouble limited her minutes. Rising star Bella Nascimento impressed with 24 points, including 5 three-pointers.
Nevertheless, Brazil struggled to keep pace down the stretch as the Americans’ depth wore them down.
Key Statistics Tell the Story
The game’s statistics clearly underscored the U.S. dominance:
- Bench Points: USA 35, Brazil 1
- Rebounds: USA 46, Brazil 35 (including 19 offensive boards)
- Points in the Paint: USA 46, Brazil 26
- Fast Break Points: USA 21, Brazil 3
- Points off Turnovers: USA 22, Brazil 9
Additionally, Olivia Miles set a new Women’s AmeriCup assist record with 50 total assists over the tournament, surpassing the previous record of 46.
A Historic Fifth Title for Team USA
By securing this fifth AmeriCup title, the United States now stands second all-time behind Brazil’s six championships, surpassing Cuba’s four. The U.S. also holds seven total medals in the competition, including two silvers.
Brazil, meanwhile, remains the most decorated team in AmeriCup history with 15 overall medals, including five silvers and four bronzes.
Reactions: Voices from the Court
Hannah Hidalgo, reflecting on her first senior-level gold medal, shared her excitement:
“I think it’s a blessing. Being named to the All-Star Five again and representing my country is an honor. We overcame so many challenges, and our depth really carried us through.”
Olivia Miles praised her team’s resilience against Brazil’s seasoned players:
“Damiris Dantas was amazing—she showed her experience—but we stayed steady. I’m proud of how our young team battled, especially in the fourth quarter.”
Final Standings of FIBA Women’s AmeriCup 2025
Position | Team | Qualification Status |
---|---|---|
1 | USA | Qualified for FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 & Qualifiers |
2 | BRA | Qualified for World Cup 2026 Qualifiers |
3 | CAN | Qualified for World Cup 2026 Qualifiers |
4 | ARG | Qualified for World Cup 2026 Qualifiers |
5 | COL | Qualified for World Cup 2026 Qualifiers |
6 | PUR | Qualified for World Cup 2026 Qualifiers |
7 | MEX | — |
8 | DOM | — |
9 | CHI | — |
10 | ESA | — |

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