Caitlin Clark helps US beat China and 7-foot-3 Zhang Ziyu 94-61 at World Cup
AP News • • sports
Key Points:
- Caitlin Clark led the U.S. with 14 points and 11 assists in a 94-61 victory over China in the women's basketball World Cup opener, contributing to the Americans' 31st consecutive World Cup win since 2006.
- The U.S. team, featuring a young roster including Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese, dominated early and overcame China's defensive presence led by 7-foot-3 Zhang Ziyu and 6-10 Han Xu.
- Despite Zhang's strong performance with 13 points and nine free throws made, China was unable to close the gap, as the U.S. maintained control with key runs in the first half and third quarter.
- The U.S. enjoyed strong fan support in Berlin, with Clark engaging warmly with fans before the game, a contrast to the usual jeering faced by the team in international tournaments.
- The U.S. will next face Italy, while China will play the Czech Republic in their upcoming pool games on Saturday.
