Team USA coach Kara Lawson prepares for FIBA World Cup clash with Italy
3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 7, 2026, 5:48 PM
Last updated Sep 7, 2026
Following a successful start to their 2026 FIBA World Cup campaign, Team USA prepares for a Sunday matchup against Italy. Team USA secured a 94-61 victory over China on Friday, while Italy defeated the Czech Republic 63-54. USA head coach Kara Lawson characterized the Italian roster as one of the best teams in Europe and specifically highlighted the play of Cecilia Zandalasini. Lawson emphasized the necessity of disciplined defensive play to counter Italy's ball movement and composure. The upcoming contest presents a significant challenge for the American side, with Lawson noting that the squad expects high-level opposition throughout the tournament. Players including Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers made their World Cup debuts in the win against China.
- •Team USA defeated China 94-61 on Friday to open their 2026 World Cup campaign.
- •Italy won their tournament opener against the Czech Republic with a score of 63-54.
- •Cecilia Zandalasini led Italy in scoring against the Czech Republic with 19 points.
- •Team USA faces Italy on Sunday in their next FIBA World Cup fixture.
- •Kara Lawson identified Cecilia Zandalasini as a primary defensive concern for the upcoming match.
- 5:48 PMYahoo Sports — Coach Kara Lawson called out USA Basketball's passion after FIBA World Cup win. What's next?
- 1:40 PMYahoo Sports — ‘Make you pay’ – Team USA coach gives verdict on Italy ahead of FIBA World Cup clash
"USA head coach Kara Lawson has been speaking about the team’s upcoming FIBA World Cup tie with Italy, who she has described as ‘talented’. The USA got their 2026 World Cup campaign off to a brilliant start on Friday, beating China 94-61.
"Kara Lawson, coach of USA Basketball and Duke women's basketball, called out Team USA's passion after a win vs. Italy. How will it respond today?
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 7, 2026, 5:48 PMCoach Kara Lawson called out USA Basketball's passion after FIBA World Cup win. What's next?
Kara Lawson, coach of USA Basketball and Duke women's basketball, called out Team USA's passion after a win vs. Italy. How will it respond today?
- Yahoo SportsSep 5, 2026, 1:40 PM‘Make you pay’ – Team USA coach gives verdict on Italy ahead of FIBA World Cup clash
USA head coach Kara Lawson has been speaking about the team’s upcoming FIBA World Cup tie with Italy, who she has described as ‘talented’. The USA got their 2026 World Cup campaign off to a brilliant start on Friday, beating China 94-61.
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