Caitlin Clark sends message to fans after Team USA debut

Caitlin Clark once again showed everyone why she is one of the best women’s basketball players in the world. She delivered a historic performance during her FIBA World Cup debut for Team USA on Friday against China. The Indiana Fever star guard also sent a message to her fans after the game.

Clark recorded 14 points, three rebounds, 11 assists and three three-pointers in the 94-61 win. She became the first USA player with a double-double in her first World Cup outing. What’s even more impressive is she produced the numbers despite coming off the bench. The three-time WNBA All-Star finished +30 on the night, making a strong impact on both ends of the floor.

She and Team USA will play their second preliminary round game on Sunday versus Italy. The Americans are heavy favorites to win the tournament and capture their fifth consecutive world championship.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) claps her hands in excitement.

Caitlin Clark talks about seeing fans’ excitement

During her postgame availability, Clark was asked to share her thoughts about fans’ excitement. She highlighted how the game continues to grow, as well as being teammates with fellow WNBA stars.

“I think pregame, I try to stay locked in as I can,” Clark said. “But it’s so fun to see all the fans and their excitement, how much the women’s game is growing globally. Even after the game, there was just so much excitement, and not only for myself, (but) for so many players on this team. That’s a really cool thing.

“And I think that will only continue to grow as we progress through the tournament. And then obviously ,playing around so many talented players, our guards are incredible and our post players too.”

Caitlin is asked about her fans and answers the question by including women’s sports as a whole and her teammates. Humble as always and putting the spotlight on her teammates instead of herself pic.twitter.com/NhtDpHBbfq

— ericaf455 (@ericaf455) September 4, 2026

Clark didn’t waste time stamping her mark as soon as she entered the game. She facilitated, controlled the tempo and knocked down shots on good looks. Head coach Kara Lawson will continue to rely on her elite skill set throughout the tournament, especially in knockout matchups.