Caitlin Clark Leads Team USA in Two Key Categories After World Cup Group Stage
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Caitlin Clark made a strong senior national team debut for Team USA at the FIBA World Cup, recording 11 assists and 14 points against China, setting a record for most assists in a World Cup debut without turnovers.
- Despite limited playing time compared to her role with Indiana Fever, Clark leads Team USA in assists per game and total assists after the group stage, averaging 6.3 assists in just over 20 minutes per game.
- Team USA has performed well with Clark on the floor, holding a +58 plus/minus rating through three games, highlighting her significant playmaking impact.
- As the tournament moves into single-elimination quarterfinals, it remains uncertain if Clark will see critical minutes in close games, with coach Kara Lawson’s lineup decisions expected to vary game-to-game.
- Clark’s ability to set up teammates and influence the game positively has established her as one of Team USA’s top contributors so far in the World Cup.
