Gabby Williams of France was honored with the Best Defensive Player award at the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup, cementing her status as one of the premier defenders in international basketball. This accolade follows her similar achievement at the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking her second consecutive defensive award on the global stage.
Gabby Williams Dominates on Defense During FIBA World Cup 2026
Throughout the tournament held in Berlin, Williams showcased her defensive prowess by averaging an impressive 2.8 steals per game over six matches against some of the world’s best teams. Tasked with guarding the opposition’s leading scorers, the French guard did not just excel defensively; she contributed significantly on offense as well, averaging 18.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per contest.
Her all-around impact was recognized with a selection to the FIBA Women’s World Cup All-Star Five, highlighting her status as a standout two-way player. Williams’ relentless defensive pressure disrupted opponents’ offensive flow, forcing turnovers and cutting off passing lanes. Her efforts helped France maintain an undefeated record in group play, sweeping through the initial stages of the competition.
Despite France’s eventual 97-79 loss to the United States in the gold medal match, Williams made the American backcourt work hard, complicating their offensive strategies and proving difficult to overcome.
Williams Builds Best Defensive Player Reputation in WNBA
At 30 years old, the Golden State Valkyries forward has garnered a similar defensive reputation in the WNBA. She led the league in steals during the 2025 season, further solidifying her standing as one of the most effective defenders in professional women’s basketball.