USA routs China in FIBA Women's World Cup opener

Team USA opened its quest for a record-extending 12th FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup title with a decisive 94-61 victory over China on Friday in Berlin. The Americans, the reigning champions, immediately signaled their intent to defend their crown with a dominant performance against a Chinese team that finished as the runner-up in the 2022 tournament. The favored U.S. squad, featuring a blend of established stars and World Cup debutants, never trailed. Guard Caitlin Clark, making her senior World Cup debut, led the team with 14 points and 11 assists, earning TCL Player of the Game honors. Her playmaking was a significant factor in building an early lead, which stood at 27-14 after the first quarter and extended to 49-29 by halftime. Clark was not the only newcomer to make an immediate impact. Paige Bueckers and Rhyne Howard also scored 14 points each, with Howard hitting a team-high four three-pointers. Jackie Young contributed 12 points. Angel Reese, coming off the bench, anchored the rebounding effort with a team-high nine boards, including five on the offensive glass, and added five points and a block.