Clark struggles as USA narrowly beats Italy 55-52

Team USA secured a narrow 55-52 victory over Italy in a FIBA Women's World Cup group stage game on Sunday, September 6, 2026, a contest marked by a historically low offensive output from the American squad and a career-worst performance from guard Caitlin Clark. Clark, who came off the bench, scored just one point, a free throw, and missed all six of her field goal attempts. This marked the first time in her collegiate or professional career that she failed to make a field goal. She also recorded one assist, four rebounds, and two turnovers in 18 minutes of play. The team's overall offensive struggles were evident, with the United States shooting just 28.6 percent from the field and making only one of 12 three-point attempts. The 55 points scored by Team USA was its lowest total in a World Cup game since 1971. Despite the team's difficult outing, a postgame locker room video captured a moment of levity. Clark was seen attempting to hide her feet under a chair, prompting teammates Jackie Young, Angel Reese, and Aliyah Boston to laugh. Young pointed out Clark's action, leading to the shared amusement.