Caitlin Clark Shines in Team USA Debut, Dominates Senegal in FIBA World Cup Qualifier
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Caitlin Clark made a resounding debut for Team USA on Wednesday, leading the team to a dominant 110-46 victory over Senegal in a FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament game. The Indiana Fever star showcased her skills with 17 points and 12 assists in just 19 minutes of action.
Clark’s Impressive Performance
Clark, playing in her first game since July 15th, wasted no time making an impact. She connected on four 3-pointers and went 5-of-5 from the free-throw line. Her 12 assists set up seven different teammates, including Rhyne Howard (three times), Monique Billings (four times), Kelsey Plum, Kiki Iriafen, Paige Bueckers, Angel Reese, and Kahleah Copper.
“I thought I was going to be anxious, but I was just excited,” Clark said, according to ESPN’s Kendra Andrews. “I’ve been preparing for this for a really long time. … There’s nothing like getting to run around out there and having fun, especially with a group of people as talented as this. It came to me pretty quick, especially when I got that first 3 to roll around.”
Return to Competition After Injury
The game marked Clark’s return to competitive basketball after being limited to 13 games during the 2025 WNBA season due to lower body injuries. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play, stating, “Any time you get to put this jersey on, it’s a little different.” She added, “More than anything, it makes me happy that I’m super sweaty right now and I got to play basketball.”
Team USA’s Dominant Display
Rhyne Howard contributed 21 points, shooting 6-of-8 from beyond the arc, and added five rebounds, two assists, and a steal. Angel Reese added six points and eight rebounds. Team USA’s victory was fueled by their stifling defense, forcing 20 turnovers, and efficient shooting, connecting on 60.6% of their field goal attempts, and 54.8% of their 3-point shots.
Looking Ahead
The United States has already qualified for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup in Germany. Team USA will continue their qualifying campaign with a game against Puerto Rico on Thursday.
CAITLIN CLARK IN HER SENIOR NT DEBUT:
🔷17 PTS
🔷12 AST
#FIBAWWC x #WeOwnTheGame https://t.co/9iCzULi58m