Team USA prepares for second FIBA World Cup game against Italy

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 8:00 PM

Last updated Sep 5, 2026

Team USA prepares for second FIBA World Cup game against Italy
Summary

Team USA enters its second FIBA World Cup match following a dominant opening performance against China. Head coach Kara Lawson utilized a younger rotation in the first game, with Rhyne Howard, Paige Bueckers, and Caitlin Clark each contributing 14 points. Angel Reese led the effort on the boards with nine rebounds. The coaching staff now faces a decision on whether to maintain this reliance on younger players or integrate veteran members such as Breanna Stewart and Chelsea Gray for the upcoming contest against Italy. Elsewhere in the tournament, Australia looks to build on its opening win as it faces Türkiye, while Belgium continues to rely on Emma Meesseman, who set a tournament record with 27 points in her previous outing. The American team remains at the top of Group D heading into Sunday's schedule.

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Status Watch
  • Team USA recorded an opening victory against China behind 14-point performances from Rhyne Howard, Paige Bueckers, and Caitlin Clark.
  • Angel Reese led Team USA with nine rebounds in the opening game.
  • Australia faces Türkiye on Sunday after a strong frontcourt showing from Alanna Smith and Ezi Magbegor.
  • Emma Meesseman scored a tournament-record 27 points for Belgium in their opening game.
  • The Team USA second game is scheduled for 2:45 p.m. ET.
Latest Updates
  • 8:00 PMYahoo SportsWorld Cup gameday discussion: How will head coach Kara Lawson and Team USA approach their second game of the tournament?
What they're saying
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Team USA takes the court for their second FIBA World Cup. Another domination is the expectation.

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