League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

United States defeats China in FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup debut

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 7:13 PM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

United States defeats China in FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup debut

Summary

The United States secured a 94-61 victory over China on Friday in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup at Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin. This win marks the 31st consecutive World Cup victory for the U.S. squad as they pursue a fifth straight gold medal. Caitlin Clark made her senior national team debut, contributing 14 points and 11 assists in over 25 minutes of play off the bench. Paige Bueckers and Rhyne Howard also recorded 14 points each to help overcome a physical challenge posed by China’s 7-foot-3 center Zhang Ziyu. The U.S. successfully limited China to 32% shooting while maintaining a 47-41 rebounding advantage throughout the game.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•The United States defeated China 94-61 in Berlin during the group phase.
•Caitlin Clark recorded 14 points and 11 assists in her senior national team debut.
•The U.S. outrebounded China 47-41 despite the size of Zhang Ziyu.
•Coach Kara Lawson utilized a lineup that combined veteran leadership with new talent like Clark and Paige Bueckers.

Latest Updates

7:13 PMYahoo Sports — How Caitlin Clark changed 'tempo of the game' off bench in USA win vs China, senior national debut

What they're saying

"
Caitlin Clark was the pace-setter and, though she came off the bench, was tough to take off the floor. Plus, Aliyah Boston helped defend 7-foot-3 Zhang Ziyu.
— Yahoo Sports

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