Following a stellar performance in leading Team USA to a significant victory over China, WNBA All-Star Caitlin Clark encountered difficulties at the FIBA World Cup. In the second game against Italy, Clark was unable to make any of her six field-goal attempts, scoring only one point from the free-throw line. However, she contributed by securing six rebounds and providing an assist in over 18 minutes of play for Team USA. This performance starkly contrasted with what fans and critics have come to expect from one of the WNBA’s prominent figures.
Tina Charles, an eight-time WNBA All-Star and former league MVP, came to Clark’s defense amidst criticism following her subpar performance. Charles suggested that the focus on Clark was unwarranted. ‘I think it’s a little bit unfair to isolate Caitlin Clark from Team USA, right? Caitlin Clark had rhythms in the first game [against China], so did Team USA. Caitlin Clark struggled to find that rhythm [against Italy], so did Team USA,’ Charles remarked during TNT’s coverage of the FIBA World Cup.
I think the lesson for Team USA and Caitlin Clark is, ‘Ok, what I’m used to doing is not available, or I’m not able to do that, what is the second thing I’m gonna do to impact this game?’
she suggested.
The United States’ second game was a narrow 55-52 win over a tenacious Italian squad, known for their aggressive and physical style during the FIBA World Cup matchup. Team USA’s shooting was below par at 28.6% from the field, with guard Jackie Young as the only player reaching double digits with 10 points.
Team USA rebounded against Czechia, achieving a commanding 105-64 victory to conclude the FIBA World Cup Group Phase. In this game, Clark recorded nine points on 3-for-8 shooting and made seven assists, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Having secured a 3-0 record in the group games, Clark and Team USA advanced to the final phase of the 2026 FIBA World Cup. They await the winner of the Hungary-Japan game for their quarterfinal matchup.
For further updates on the WNBA and FIBA World Cup, you may refer to Newsweek Sports.
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