US starts strong, holds off China's tall duo
In the opening game of the women's basketball World Cup in Berlin on Friday, Caitlin Clark contributed 14 points and 11 assists to lead the United States to a 94-61 victory over China, whose lineup featured 7-foot-3 Zhang Ziyu. Rhyne Howard also scored 14 points, and Jackie Young added 12 for the Americans, who have now won 31 consecutive World Cup games since their last loss in the 2006 semifinals.[S1]
The US roster is in a period of transition, featuring young talents like Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese. Although none started, the trio played together to close the first quarter, helping the Americans take a 27-14 lead. China responded in the second quarter behind Zhang, who was making her World Cup debut. The 19-year-old's height made it difficult for the US to score inside, but the Americans double-teamed her on offense and went on a 16-4 run to lead 49-29 at halftime.[S1]
China's comeback attempt falls short
In the third quarter, China paired Zhang with 6-10 Han Xu, creating a formidable defensive wall. China managed to cut the deficit to 53-37, but the young trio of Clark, Bueckers, and Reese sparked a 17-5 run to close the period. Zhang finished with 13 points, making nine of her 10 free throws, while Han added 11 points and 10 rebounds.[S1]
The US, typically jeered by opposing crowds in international tournaments, enjoyed fan support on Friday. Clark, known for signing autographs before WNBA games, signed a basketball and posed for a photo with a young girl wearing a Fever shirt with her name on the back. Next, the US will play Italy on Saturday, while China faces the Czech Republic.[S1]
