Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark is back to form. After an injury-riddled second year in the WNBA, Clark has hit the ground running for Team USA.
Her squad is competing at the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The 24-year-old fan-favorite has continued to impress alongside fellow stars Paige Bueckers, Kahleah Cooper and Kelsey Plum, among others.
Clark has racked up 51 points and 25 assists across four games so far for the undefeated Team USA. Against New Zealand on Sunday, all eyes were on Clark once again.
WNBA: Team USA salutes Caitlin Clark’s standout first start against New Zealand
After coming off the bench in her first three games with Team USA, Clark earned her first start against New Zealand. The Americans steamrolled to a 101-46 victory, improving to 4-0 in the qualifying tournament.
Clark started alongside Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum, Monique Billings and Dearica Hamby. She rewarded interim coach Nate Tibbetts’ decision with a polished outing.
Clark posted 14 points on 6-of-11 from the field, 2-of-7 from three and 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. The Fever star also dished out a team-high six assists in 23 minutes of action.
Team USA’s official Instagram account celebrated her performance, sharing a graphic of her stat line alongside her best highlights.
The reel featured step-back threes, elite court vision and lockdown defense. Team USA issued a strong statement.
“CC came to play in her first start for the 🇺🇸,” the caption read.
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Rhyne Howard led all scorers with 18 points off the bench. Plum and Billings added 10 points apiece. Operating at point guard, Clark thrived with the ball in her hands more than in previous games. She created shots for herself and her teammates with a natural authority.
Team USA faces Spain next on Tuesday. Clark carries strong momentum into the Americans’ final game of the qualifying tournament.
Caitlin Clark fans facing backlash after Team USA win
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