Team USA is off to a hot start, tipping off its 2026 FIBA World Cup campaign with a dominant 94-61 win in this morning's USA Basketball vs China showdown to take an early lead in Group D.
Caitlin Clark notched a 14-point, 11-assist double-double in her World Cup debut, backed by 14 points a piece from fellow first-time guards Paige Bueckers and Rhyne Howard.
“I think the young and turnt group, they did really well,” said veteran forward Breanna Stewart. “They took what they wanted, they were the aggressors, they were confident.”
The US win headlines a busy opening day, as Australia beat Puerto Rico 70-54, Japan edged Mali 102-97, and South Korea topped Nigeria 99-81.
WNBA talent will be on display as games continue today, with Spain’s Awa Fam taking on Germany’s Niara Sabally before star-studded France closes out the slate against Hungary.
Clark and co. have a quick turnaround, as the US gears up for a Sunday afternoon date with Italy after the Italians open their run against Czechia.
Tune in: 2026 FIBA World Cup coverage continues through the weekend (TNT).
