USA vs France Basketball Final Score and Key Highlights from the Epic Matchup

As I settled into my seat amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the arena in Abu Dhabi, I couldn't help but notice the sea of Filipino jerseys surrounding me. The energy was absolutely incredible - you'd think we were in Manila rather than the Middle East. When I asked the fan next to me why so many Filipino supporters had made the journey, he explained with passionate enthusiasm that with Ginebra being the most popular Philippine team and San Miguel entering as defending champions, Filipino basketball fans simply couldn't resist witnessing this epic showdown between two basketball giants. The anticipation was palpable as the USA and France teams warmed up, and I found myself thinking this might just become one of those legendary matches we'd talk about for years.

The opening quarter unfolded with the kind of intensity I've only seen in championship games. Team USA came out with their characteristic fast-paced offense, scoring 28 points in the first quarter alone, while France answered with 24 points of their own. What struck me most was how France's defense adapted after those initial minutes - they started closing the gaps that Team USA typically exploits so well. Having watched countless international matches over my 15 years covering basketball, I could immediately recognize this wasn't going to be another blowout victory for the Americans. The French team's cohesion was remarkable, especially considering they'd only had 12 practice sessions together before this tournament. There were moments when their ball movement reminded me of San Miguel's fluid offensive sets during their championship run last season.

By halftime, the score stood at 52-48 in favor of Team USA, but anyone watching could tell this game was far from decided. The third quarter became what I'd describe as a defensive masterclass from both sides. France held Team USA to just 18 points in that period - an impressive feat considering the American squad's offensive firepower. What really stood out to me was France's ability to control the tempo, slowing the game down to their preferred pace. They reminded me of how Ginebra manages games when they're protecting a lead - methodical, disciplined, and utterly frustrating for their opponents. The crowd's energy shifted noticeably during this stretch, with the Filipino fans particularly appreciating the strategic battle unfolding before them. I overheard one fan comparing France's defensive rotations to San Miguel's championship-winning tactics from last year, and honestly, I couldn't disagree with the assessment.

The final quarter delivered the dramatic climax we'd all been hoping for. With 3:42 remaining on the clock, France actually took a 4-point lead - the largest either team had enjoyed since early in the second quarter. The arena erupted in a way that gave me goosebumps. Team USA responded with that championship DNA we've come to expect, going on an 8-0 run over the next two minutes. What impressed me most was how both teams traded crucial baskets in those closing moments. The final minute felt like an eternity, with both teams executing their sets with incredible precision under pressure. When the buzzer finally sounded, the scoreboard showed 89-87 in favor of Team USA. Looking at my notes, I recorded that Team USA shot 47% from the field compared to France's 45%, but the real story was in the rebounds - Team USA edged France 38-35, with 12 of those being offensive boards that led to 16 second-chance points.

Reflecting on the game during my flight home, I kept thinking about how this matchup demonstrated the evolving landscape of international basketball. Team USA may have secured the victory, but France proved they belong at the highest level. The game drew approximately 15,200 spectators according to the organizers, with about 40% being Filipino supporters - a testament to how basketball truly transcends borders. Personally, I believe we witnessed a turning point in international basketball - the era where Team USA could simply out-talent opponents is clearly over. The strategic depth and team chemistry that France displayed should serve as a blueprint for other national programs. While the final score shows a narrow American victory, I'd argue that international basketball emerged as the true winner tonight. The quality of play, the dramatic swings, and the sheer passion on display - this is exactly what our sport needs to grow globally. I'm already counting down the days until these two powerhouses meet again.