“We kind of know what the standard is for USA basketball… We just want to keep that going.” Team USA’s Jackie Young explained the expectations from the team well. While the Olympics represent the sporting world’s best of the best, basketball is one sport that has been completely dominated by the USA. While the men’s team came to Paris hoping to win their 5th straight Olympic Gold, the women’s team’s dominance stretches even further back.

Though international growth has challenged their record of success, there are exceptions. For the American women’s squad, their winning streak dates back to the 1996 Atlanta Summer Games.

The Barcelona Olympics proved to be a big wake-up call

In the 1992 Barcelona Summer Games, Team USA was as dominant as one would expect. They paved their way to the semi-final against the Unified Team with impressive wins by 55, 26, and 56 points. As they entered the court against the Unified Team (formerly the Soviet Union), everyone expected them to return with a win.

Slowly and gradually, however, those hopes were shattered when Team USA couldn’t close the gap. The American roster fell short in the first half, allowing 47 points to the opponent. For the Unified Team, Natalya Zasulskaya turned out to be a blessing, leading with 20 impressive points and 8 rebounds.

Team USA’s roster struggled, especially Medina Dixon, who contributed 12 points to lead the team in the 73-79 loss. They lost and had to settle for a chance at bronze against Cuba. However, the team still seemed affected by the surprising loss in the semis as they allowed 44 points in the first half against Cuba. But in the second half, they made a comeback to secure a medal.

It was a disappointment, especially when the men’s Dream Team returned with a gold. In fact, the loss to the Unified Team was only the third Olympic loss for the women’s basketball team. But it still remains the last defeat for the dominating USAWB. This loss ignited a fire within Team USA to make a comeback, and they did just that.

How did Team USA’s loss in 1992 form the basis for a gold medal streak?

In 1996, they roared on their home turf, defeating Australia, Brazil, and Japan on their way to victory. They achieved this while winning with double-digit margins in the knockout stage to claim gold at the Atlanta Summer Games. Since then, they haven’t looked back. This year, at the 2024 Paris Olympics, they are vying for their eighth consecutive Olympic gold.

And they’re almost there. On August 9th, Team USA handed a loss to a potential threat, the Australian Opals, by 85-64. This solidified their spot in the gold medal game against the host nation, France. While Team USA is the defending champion, France is back in the final for the first time since 2012. In the London Games, the French team returned with a silver medal after losing to Team USA 86-50. Diana Taurasi was part of that roster, leading the team with 6 assists in the Final.

Once again, the same outcome is expected. However, the Paris Olympics have been full of surprises. Whether Team France returns with gold or silver, history will be made either way. What do you think? Will A’ja Wilson and Co. be able to secure their 61st consecutive win?

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting pilot episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with NCAA Star Asia Avinger.