Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese caught on camera reacting to Team USA’s rough performance vs. Spain

On the bench, Team USA players Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese watched their team struggle against Spain in their 76-66 loss at the 2026 FIBA World Cup. Although the USA retained their 20-year winning streak, the performance in the semi-finals did not appear as dominant as expected. Spain initially took control, building a 9-1 lead in the first quarter.

As the game progressed, Clark joined the bench in the final minute of the quarter, after Spain had widened their lead to 16-11. Clark's presence on the bench helped the U.S. recover and regain control during the remainder of the game. Angela Reese contributed five points (6-for-6 from the free-throw line) and three rebounds, filling a rotational role alongside the veteran players.

While the margin of victory was 10 points, the manner in which Team USA secured the win raises concerns among coaches, players, and fans. Spain's shooting from three-point range was particularly disappointing, as they failed to convert a single attempt, mirroring their struggles from a 3-18 shooting performance against Italy earlier.

The primary factor in Team USA's victory was their free-throw accuracy, which was ten times greater than Spain's 11 attempts. The reactions of Clark and Reese on the bench were understandable, as the starters' energy levels were far from dominant. With France appearing to be the team's next opponent, an upset may be a possibility given France's impressive performance throughout the tournament.