Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Caitlin Clark Makes Hard Admission After Four Team USA Games

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Mar 15, 2026 6:20 PM ET

Caitlin Clark and Team USA were back in action on Sunday for their fourth game in the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament. It was their fourth contest in five days as the national squad continues to navigate through a busy schedule in Puerto Rico.

Clark finally got her first start for Team USA on Sunday. After coming off the bench in her first three games, head coach Kara Lawson finally rewarded the Indiana Fever star with her first career start for the national squad.

Clark responded with 14 points on 6-of-11 shooting, one rebound, six assists and two triples. She played 23 minutes, which is the most she’s played in the tournament since returning from an eight-month injury layoff.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) shoots the ball in the first half against the Connecticut Sun. Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Thanks in part to Clark’s strong play, the United States made easy work of New Zealand, 101-46. Rhyne Howard led the Americans in scoring with 18, while Kelsey Plum and Monique Billings chipped in with 10 apiece.

Team USA is now 4-0 with one game left on the docket. They are scheduled to take on Spain as they close out the tournament on Tuesday.

Clark spoke to reporters after Sunday’s win. When asked about the upcoming matchup against Spain, the two-time All-Star came out with an honest admission about their opponents.

“Yeah, I mean, I expect it probably be our hardest game since we've been here,” she said of Spain. “They're obviously a very good team.

“So I feel like getting off to a good start — we kind of struggled in that area a couple of games, and then we kind of did today. So I think getting off to a really good start versus them will be a big key for us. But have a day in between to prep so we'll be ready.”

Another challenge awaits on Tuesday.

The journey continues.

#USABWNT x #FIBAWWC pic.twitter.com/Seamn2vhlH
— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) March 15, 2026

Like Team USA, Spain is undefeated in the tournament. They are 3-0. As of writing, Spain is in action against Italy and is looking to make it four wins in a row.

As Clark admitted, she expects Spain to be their toughest matchup in this tournament. Nevertheless, Team USA will be ready to face the challenge on Tuesday.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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