Kara Lawson keeps Caitlin Clark in bench role for FIBA World Cup
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 1:08 PM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026

United States national team head coach Kara Lawson maintains the current starting rotation despite public interest in increasing Caitlin Clark’s role. The team finished the group stage undefeated and prepares for an upcoming quarterfinal game against Hungary. While fans have called for the rookie to join the starting lineup, Lawson defended the existing veteran core for their defensive performance and ability to secure early leads. Although starting from the bench, Caitlin Clark currently records the highest number of minutes on the roster. The coaching staff indicated no intent to alter the rotation as the squad enters the knockout rounds of the tournament. The team remains focused on tournament objectives while managing the depth of the roster through the final phase of international competition.
- •Kara Lawson confirms the veteran starting lineup will remain unchanged for the quarterfinals.
- •The United States team faces Hungary in the next round of the FIBA World Cup.
- •Caitlin Clark leads the team in total minutes played despite her reserve status.
- •Coaching staff cites strong early game execution from starters as justification for the rotation.
- 1:08 PMYahoo Sports — “I Like Where We Are Right Now”: Caitlin Clark’s Starting Role Gets Kara Lawson’s Clear Stance Ahead Of FIBA World Cup Games
"Caitlin Clark is arguably the most electrifying player in basketball right now. Fans absolutely expected Caitlin Clark to immediately grab a starting spot on the national team overseas. Despite her crazy passing skills and non-stop motor, she continues coming off the bench during the FIBA World Cup. Everyone keeps wondering when she will finally get [...]
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