US Triumphs but Zhang Dominates Headlines
The United States kicked off the FIBA Women's World Cup in Berlin with a commanding 94-61 win over China on Friday. However, the game's narrative was largely shaped by China's 19-year-old center Zhang Ziyu, whose 2.2-meter (7-foot-3) frame and interactions with American players became a viral sensation on social media.[S1]
Zhang scored 13 points, converted nine of ten free throws, and recorded two blocks, presenting a rare challenge even for a US squad packed with elite professional talent. Her presence forced the Americans to adjust their usual tactics in the paint, where routine shots became high-risk attempts.[S1]
Clark's Historic Assists and US Strategy
US guard Caitlin Clark contributed 14 points and 11 assists, the highest assist total by a US player in a Women's World Cup game since Dawn Staley's 12 in 1998. Clark acknowledged the unique difficulty of facing Zhang, noting she had never played against a woman of that size.[S1]
The US countered Zhang's height by limiting easy entry passes, pressuring China's ball-handlers, and leveraging their speed in transition. Paige Bueckers also scored 14 points as the US seized control early and pulled away.[S1]
Group D Standings and Social Media Buzz
The victory placed the US on two points in Group D, tied with Italy, who defeated the Czech Republic 63-54. Meanwhile, video clips and images of Zhang alongside US players spread rapidly online, with fans focusing on the striking size difference and the logistical puzzle she created around the basket.[S1]
Social media users joked about the difficulty of defending a player who could catch passes and shoot over most opponents without leaving the floor. Zhang's towering presence has made her a global talking point, overshadowing even the US team's strong start.[S1]
