Image Source: ESPN
The FIBA World Cup schedule began with a statement performance from Team USA, as the Americans defeated China 94-61 in their opening game Friday in Berlin. Caitlin Clark delivered 14 points and 11 assists, while Rhyne Howard also scored 14 points to help the United States extend its remarkable World Cup winning streak to 31 games.
The victory offered an early glimpse of a new American era. The U.S. roster is built around a young group that includes Clark, Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese. None of the three started the contest, but all played together during a strong opening stretch that helped the Americans establish control.
FIBA World Cup Schedule Opens With Dominant U.S. Victory
Team USA jumped ahead 27-14 by the end of the first quarter and never surrendered its advantage. Jackie Young added 12 points, while Breanna Stewart provided important scoring during a decisive second-quarter surge.
China briefly threatened to make the game competitive behind its imposing frontcourt. The Americans faced a unique challenge from 19-year-old Zhang Ziyu, who stands 7-foot-3 and was appearing in her first World Cup. Zhang’s height created problems near the basket, allowing her to defend the paint and challenge second-chance opportunities.
China moved within 33-25 after Zhang scored her first basket with 6:21 remaining in the first half. The response from the United States was immediate. Team USA closed the half with a 16-4 run, taking a commanding 49-29 lead into the break.
- Caitlin Clark: 14 points and 11 assists
- Rhyne Howard: 14 points
- Jackie Young: 12 points
- United States: 31 consecutive World Cup victories
- Final score: United States 94, China 61
China’s Towering Frontcourt Creates a Fierce Test
China paired Zhang with 6-foot-10 Han Xu in the third quarter, creating an even larger defensive wall. The strategy helped China pull within 53-37, but the Americans quickly regained momentum. Clark, Bueckers and Reese helped spark a 17-5 run to close the period, effectively ending China’s hopes of a comeback.
Zhang finished with 13 points, making nine of her 10 free throws. Han recorded 11 points and 10 rebounds, giving China a strong inside presence despite the final margin.
U.S. assistant coach Kara Lawson praised the team’s physical response against the taller Chinese lineup. Clark also credited Aliyah Boston and the American post players for battling inside and managing a difficult matchup.
Critical Saturday Games Shape the World Cup Group Stage
The latest FIBA World Cup schedule shows Team USA returning to action Saturday against Italy in another pool game. China will also play Saturday, facing the Czech Republic as both teams look to recover from opening-day defeats.
The expanded 16-team tournament gives the group stage added importance. The four group winners will advance directly to the quarterfinals, making every early result potentially decisive. A strong start can create a much easier path through the knockout rounds, while another loss could place pressure on teams to win their remaining games.
Elsewhere, host Germany suffered an 83-53 loss to Spain in front of a crowd of 14,000 at Berlin Arena. Awa Fam led Spain with 17 points, while Leonie Fiebich paced Germany with 13. Spain will face Mali next, and Germany is scheduled to meet Japan.
Japan produced one of the day’s most explosive offensive displays, defeating Mali 102-97. Saki Hayashi hit nine three-pointers, while Japan made 20 threes overall, matching a significant team scoring record from 1994.
France also lived up to its status as one of the tournament favorites, overpowering Hungary 99-53. Dominique Malonga, Gabby Williams and Marine Johannes each scored 17 points for the Olympic silver medalist. France will next face the Republic of Korea, while Hungary meets Nigeria.
Australia Gains Early Relief With Opening Win
Australia completed the opening-day winners with a 70-54 victory over Puerto Rico. Steph Talbot led the Australians with 19 points, giving coach Sandy Brondello’s team an important early boost.
Australia had lost its opening games at the previous World Cup and the Olympics, so this result immediately removes some pressure. The Australians next face Turkey on Sunday, while Puerto Rico plays Belgium.
With Clark, Bueckers and Reese attracting worldwide attention, the tournament’s opening day showed both the star power and competitive depth of women’s basketball. Team USA will now look to build on its impressive start when the next chapter of the schedule arrives Saturday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of Team USA’s opening game?
The United States defeated China 94-61 in its FIBA Women’s World Cup opener in Berlin.
How did Caitlin Clark perform?
Caitlin Clark finished with 14 points and 11 assists, helping Team USA control the game from the opening quarter.
Who will Team USA play next?
The United States will face Italy on Saturday in its next pool-stage game.
How did Zhang Ziyu perform for China?
Zhang Ziyu scored 13 points and made nine of 10 free throws in her first World Cup appearance.
How many teams advance directly to the quarterfinals?
The four group winners in the expanded 16-team tournament will advance directly to the quarterfinals.
