It probably took longer than most people expected, by Caitlin Clark finally got the chance to make her USA senior team debut.
Clark was a decorated Team USA athlete as an amateur, and finally got the call for the senior team before the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup. Clark was one of 12 players who made the squad and is one of seven making their senior team debuts. Despite all the star power on the floor for the USA's first game against China, Clark stood out the most and, surprise, surprise, she made history.
Clark made history in her USA senior team debut against China
Team USA faced China in their opening game of group play, and they quickly proved why they are the tournament favorites. The USA won 94-61, and although Clark started the game on the bench, she quickly made her presence known.
Caitlin Clark making history in international play 📖
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) September 4, 2026
she's the first player in Women's World Cup history to record 10+ assists without a turnover, and she's the first USA player to record at least 10 assists in a game in 28 years 🔥
📸 @usabasketball pic.twitter.com/pQBoxGqcc9
Clark notched a double-double off the bench, tallying 14 points and 11 assists in 25 minutes. Her stat line is significant because not only did she notch a double-double in her debut, but she tallied 11 assists without a turnover. She became the first player in Women's World Cup history to record 10-plus assists with zero turnovers. She is also the first Team USA player to record 10-plus assists in 28 years. Clark continues to prove she is one of the best players on the planet, even when she comes off the bench.
When Clark is healthy, she is a walking double-double, able to take over games with her scoring and passing, and despite her peers not giving her the respect she deserves, she is the best point guard in the WNBA. When it's all said and done, she will own multiple WNBA and Indiana franchise records, and Team USA needs her more than they know. The squad has shifted to younger players, with multiple players at 24 or younger, and Clark is the perfect player to usher in a new age.
Clark's dominating first game is just the tip of the iceberg, and there is no doubt that she will be a focal point of the offense and will command a lot of attention.
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