The US were favourites to come out on top against Spain having captured the FIBA 3x3 World Cup crown at the beginning of this month, but they came up short in the final in the French city.

Aside from the returning Linnae Harper, the US fielded a very different side to the one that enjoyed World Cup glory but they still looked impressive.

They saw off Azerbaijan, Sichuan Yuanda and Italy before beating hosts France 20-14 in the semi-finals.

Spain also looked impressive on their way to the final, beating Portugal, The Netherlands and the US under-24s before downing reigning FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series champions Canada 21-18.

Looking to stamp their authority on the gold-medal match, Spain opened up a 4-1 lead inside the opening two minutes.

Breanna Richardson took charge for the US, scoring six points but Spain continued to score crucial baskets to keep their nose in front.

It was a thrilling finale as both teams went on the attack before Spain exploited a defensive mistake from the US to move 16-14 ahead.

The American team tried to respond but their shots didn’t fall before Vega Gimeno scored a free throw to secure the victory for Spain over the US for the first time in seven years.

Sandra Ygueravide was the star of the show for Spain, topping scoring for her side in each match including the final where she notched five points.

The next stop on the FIBA Women’s 3x3 World Cup series is due to be held on Tuesday (June 27) and Wednesday (June 28) in Poitiers in France.