Women’s basketball: Focused France dismantle a very weak Nigeria and turn toward the World Cup quarter-finals

France completed a perfect group stage with another commanding performance, beating Nigeria 111-56 in Berlin. The result had no effect on the standings: France had already secured first place in Group B, while the reigning African champions had already been eliminated.

The French team controlled the game from the opening minutes. Nigeria went more than two minutes without scoring as France hit three-pointers through Janelle Salaün, Gabby Williams and Marine Johannes. France led 31-13 at the end of the first quarter, with Johannes already scoring 11 points and making three of four attempts from beyond the arc.

The gap continued to grow in the second quarter. Nigeria did not make its first field goal of the period until 3 minutes and 21 seconds before halftime, when Kunaiyi hit a three-pointer. France led 65-24 at the break and coach Jean-Aimé Toupane was able to use his bench extensively.

Williams led all scorers with 25 points. Salaün added 19 and Johannes 17, while Migna Touré scored 16 and Pauline Astier 12. Every French player appeared, including Aminata Gueye and Romane Bernies. France did not break its records for total points or winning margin, but its 22 three-pointers set a new World Cup record. The team will learn its quarter-final opponent on Thursday.