USA edges Italy 55-52 to reach World Cup quarters

Team USA narrowly secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup on Sunday, September 6, 2026, with a hard-fought 55-52 victory over Italy in Berlin, Germany. The win, which marked the United States' toughest test in nearly two decades, was characterized by significant offensive struggles for both teams and a career-low scoring performance from guard Caitlin Clark. The Americans, who entered the game with a 31-game World Cup winning streak, found their offensive rhythm disrupted by Italy's effective 2-3 zone defense. After building an early 23-8 lead, Team USA saw Italy close the first half on a 16-7 run and open the third quarter with an 11-2 spurt to take a 35-32 lead. Italy maintained pressure, holding a 50-48 advantage with less than five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. Team USA responded with a decisive 7-0 run to regain control. Breanna Stewart scored her first basket of the game to put the Americans ahead 51-50, followed by a layup from Jackie Young after Chelsea Gray drew a crucial offensive foul. Gray then extended the lead to 55-50 with a jumper.