Team USA secured a narrow 55-52 victory over Italy at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup but the hard-fought win came with an unwelcome plot twist.
Despite keeping their undefeated momentum intact, the American squad struggled through one of their most inefficient offensive performances of the tournament, turning what was expected to be a comfortable matchup into a stressful defensive battle.
Caitlin Clark endures unwanted off-night
The primary concern following the game focused on star guard Caitlin Clark, who experienced an unusually quiet night on the court. Clark logged over 18 minutes of play but managed just one single point, shooting 0-for-6 from the field including 0-for-3 from three-point range.
While she contributed four rebounds, one assist and a steal, the cold shooting performance marked an unexpected setback after her impressive double-double against China earlier in the group stage.
Looking ahead in the World Cup
Italy’s aggressive perimeter defense disrupted Team USA’s rhythm early, forcing tough shots and limiting transition scoring. Although Team USA’s defense ultimately closed out the three-point win down the stretch, the coaching staff will need to make quick adjustments.
Clark and her teammates now look to reset their offensive execution as the national team advances to the next critical round of international competition.
