Caitlin Clark helps US beat China and 7-foot-3 Zhang Ziyu 94-61 in women’s World Cup opener

In a thrilling Women's Basketball World Cup match, the United States emerged victorious over China, defeating the 7-foot-3 Zhang Ziyu's team with a score of 94-61. Caitlin Clark contributed 14 points and 11 assists, while Rhyne Howard added 14 points and Jackie Young scored 12 points. This win marked the U.S.'s 31st consecutive World Cup win, dating back to their loss in the 2006 semifinal game.

The Americans dominated the opening quarter, leading 27-14. China's Zhang Ziyu, making her first World Cup appearance, dominated defensively, challenging the U.S. team inside the paint. On offense, she proved challenging, as the Americans constantly double-teamed her. Zhang scored the game's first basket, bringing China within 33-25 with 6:21 left in the half.

However, the U.S. responded with a 16-4 run to close the first half, extending their lead to 49-29. Young contributed a crucial three-point play, while Breanna Stewart sealed the scoring with the final four points of the spurt. Despite the strong performance from Zhang and her teammate Han Xu, the U.S. continued to overpower China, sealing the victory with a 17-5 run in the third quarter.