Clark and Bueckers shine in World Cup debuts as the US women rout China 94-61
BERLIN (AP) — Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers made the most of their World Cup debuts to help the United States rout China in the opener of the tournament. Clark had 14 points and 11…
Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers made impressive World Cup debuts, leading the United States to an 94-61 victory over China. Clark contributed 14 points and 11 assists, while Bueckers added another 14 points. This match marked the first time these two players would form the U.S. backcourt together for years to come. Bueckers explained, "It’s just organic.
We know how to play well off of each other. She draws so much defensive attention, so a lot of the defense is worried about her." Clark appreciated the abundance of offensive options available due to her talented teammates, saying, "Everywhere she turned to pass there was a teammate waiting to score." She aimed to facilitate, with 11 assists being her best by a U.S. player since Dawn Staley's 12 against Russia in 1998.
The U.S. had previously defeated China in the 2022 World Cup, but the Chinese team featured 7-foot-3 Zhang Ziyu, who made her own impressive debut with 13 points and nine successful free throws. Despite Zhang's towering presence, Bueckers chose to shoot foul line jumpers rather than attempt a drive to the basket.
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Also reported by 5 other outlets
- Caitlin Clark helps US beat China and 7-foot-3 Zhang Ziyu 94-61 in women’s World Cup opener apnews.com
- Clark and Bueckers shine in World Cup debuts as the US women rout China 94-61 winnipegfreepress.com
- Team USA dominates China to open FIBA Women’s World Cup sports.yahoo.com
- D’Tigress lose to South Korea in World Cup opener punchng.com
- Team USA's Caitlin Clark Decision Sparks Backlash at FIBA World Cup newsweek.com
