France surpasses Team USA in FIBA World Cup power rankings

France claimed the top spot in the latest FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup power rankings following a perfect group stage performance. The rankings placed Team USA in second, despite the Americans also finishing their group stage undefeated. France holds the tournament's largest point differential, boosted by a record-setting 111-56 victory over Nigeria that included 22 three-pointers. Team USA enters the knockout stage with a plus-77 point differential, coming off a 105-64 win against Czechia. The American side, led by Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese, remains a favorite to reach the final. Under the current bracket structure, the two teams would not face each other until the gold medal game. This path would provide the United States an opportunity to defend its World Cup record as it pursues a 12th title.

• 2:14 PMYahoo Sports — Why Caitlin Clark and Team USA fell behind France in FIBA World Cup power ranking