Team USA continued its impressive legacy in the FIBA Women’s World Cup by defeating China 94-61 in their tournament opener on September 4, 2026, in Berlin, Germany. This victory marked the Americans' ongoing dominance, as they have not lost a World Cup game since 2006, when current standout Paige Bueckers was just four years old. With four consecutive World Cup titles to their name, the U.S. team is looking to extend its remarkable streak.
The game was particularly significant for the new generation of players, including Bueckers, Caitlin Clark, and others who have dubbed themselves the "young and turnt" crew. These young athletes made their mark in their World Cup debuts, showcasing their skills and potential on an international stage. Veteran guard Chelsea Gray praised the newcomers, noting their talent and growth, which is essential for the team's future.
In the matchup against China, nine of the twelve players on Team USA experienced their first World Cup game, with six players participating in their first major international competition. Among them, Clark and Bueckers stood out, each scoring 14 points, with Clark also contributing 11 assists—a double-double performance that helped solidify the team's lead. Clark's impressive play was highlighted by her ability to maintain control, as she recorded her assists without committing any turnovers.
Clark's performance set a new benchmark for American players in their World Cup debuts, as she achieved the highest number of assists since Alyssa Thomas recorded nine against Belgium in 2022. Head coach Kara Lawson commended Clark for her ability to change the game's tempo and for her exceptional playmaking skills. Clark's achievement of at least ten assists without turnovers is a rare feat in the history of the Women's World Cup, emphasizing her impact on the game.
Another standout in the game was Rhyne Howard, who demonstrated her shooting prowess by hitting four three-pointers, contributing significantly to the team's scoring efforts. Howard's early threes helped establish a commanding lead for Team USA, showcasing the depth of talent available to the squad. Lawson noted the importance of having multiple players step up, which is crucial for the team's success.
On the other side of the court, China's Zhang Ziyu made a strong impression, scoring 13 points and grabbing six rebounds. The 19-year-old center, standing at 7-foot-4, posed a significant challenge for Team USA, particularly for defenders like Aliyah Boston and Angel Reese. Despite the size disadvantage, Boston and Reese managed to compete effectively against Zhang, demonstrating their resilience and determination.
In addition to the game highlights, the tournament opener was also marked by a notable off-court event: the announcement of WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert's impending departure. This news came at a time when many players were focused on their World Cup performance, leading to questions about the timing of the announcement. Engelbert has faced criticism regarding various aspects of her leadership, and her exit could shift the focus away from the athletes competing in the World Cup.
As the FIBA Women’s World Cup progresses, Team USA will look to build on this strong start, with the young talent proving they can compete at the highest level. With their sights set on another championship, the team will aim to leverage the momentum gained from their opening victory against China.
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