CHENGDU, China (May 2, 2026) – The USA Women opened the 2026 FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series with a statement in Chengdu, China, capturing their first title on the circuit since 2024 on a run defined by late-game toughness until the very last buzzer.
The U.S. arguably saved their very best for last with a 20-18, down-to-the-wire win over Germany for the crown. The Germans leaned into their size advantage early, attacking the paint and building a narrow edge, but the USA responded with defensive intensity; MiLaysia Fulwiley brought disruption in the passing lane and Joyce Edwards kept the interior congested to force key stops to stay within striking distance.
The game tightened in the closing minutes, tied at 12-12 with five to play before Germany surged ahead late, taking a 16-13 advantage. But ultimately, the U.S. continued to grind out possessions, even as late-game turnovers on both ends threatened to shift momentum. Trailing 18-17 with a minute to play, the Americans delivered the deciding sequence: after chasing down multiple offensive rebounds, Mikaylah Williams, who led the team with 10 points and six rebounds, rose up and knocked down a clutch 2-pointer to hand the USA a 19-18 lead. Sahara Williams then followed with a key putback to extend the margin, and the USA defense executed in the closing seconds to secure the title with two-point win.
The U.S. women will compete at the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series Manilain the Philippines next week.
A full recap can be found on usab.com.
For more information on the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series, click here.