Caitlin Clark Scores 14 as Team USA Beats China 94-61
Caitlin Clark came off the bench to score 14 points and provide six assists as Team USA opened the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup with a 94-61 win over China in Berlin. Coach Kara Lawson started Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, Kahleah Copper, Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, but Clark quickly influenced the game after entering. She hit a deep three-pointer and helped Team USA build a 49-29 halftime lead. Clark, Paige Bueckers and Rhyne Howard each finished with 14 points. The result extended the United States’ dominance over China, marking its 16th consecutive victory in the matchup. Team USA is defending its title and seeking a fifth straight World Cup championship despite pre-tournament absences involving A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum. The United States next faces Italy on September 6 and Czechia on September 7. Clark’s production could increase pressure on Lawson to move her into the starting lineup, but the opening game also highlighted Team USA’s depth.
Neutral
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