Team USA secured a dominant 94-61 victory over China in the opening game of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin, Germany, anchored by strong interior defense from team captain Breanna Stewart, according to Athlon Sports. The three-time WNBA champion held her own against China’s towering frontcourt before receiving public praise from teammate Paige Bueckers on social media.
Breanna Stewart and Team USA Open World Cup Campaign in Berlin
Team USA kicked off the quadrennial tournament with a statement win, relying heavily on veterans and first-time tournament selections alike. According to Athlon Sports, Breanna Stewart finished the opening game against China with seven points, seven rebounds, two assists, and one steal in just 16 minutes of action.
Beyond her offensive output as a starter, Stewart’s primary defensive value lay in containing China’s formidable frontcourt rotation. The three-time FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup champion successfully checked China’s twin towers: Han Xu, who stands 6-foot-11, and Zhang Ziyu, who stands 7-foot-3. Following the matchup, Stewart posted several highlights on Instagram with the caption “Dub.”
Did you know? Breanna Stewart is one of the most decorated veterans on the United States roster, carrying three Olympic medals into the Berlin tournament.
Paige Bueckers Shouts Out Her Team Captain on Instagram
The veteran leadership displayed by Stewart has resonated deeply within the locker room, particularly among younger additions to the national program. Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers responded to Stewart’s post with a short, appreciative comment, writing, “Cap 🫡,” as reported by Athlon Sports.
The connection between the veteran star and the younger generation translated directly to the court as the tournament progressed. Team USA advanced to a 2-0 record following a hard-fought 55-52 victory over Italy. In that defensive battle, Stewart contributed five points and a game-high 11 rebounds, while Bueckers provided a spark off the bench with seven points, five rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks.
Roster Dynamics and High-Profile Exclusions
The path to the 2026 World Cup roster involved significant personnel decisions managed by U.S. Basketball senior women’s national team managing director Sue Bird. The roster features seven tournament first-timers—Aliyah Boston, Paige Bueckers, Caitlin Clark, Napheesa Collier, Rhyne Howard, Angel Reese, and Jackie Young—alongside returners Kahleah Copper, Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum, A’ja Wilson, and Stewart.
Notable among the roster discussions was the omission of New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu, who expressed public disappointment in being left off the team after missing time earlier in the WNBA season with a left foot injury and back soreness. Despite the difficult cut, Stewart admitted she was surprised by the decision regarding her WNBA teammate, noting that Ionescu plans to use the break to prepare for a postseason push.
| Player | Team / Role | Tournament Status |
|---|---|---|
| Breanna Stewart | New York Liberty / Captain | Active Roster (Starter) |
| Paige Bueckers | Dallas Wings / Guard | Active Roster (Bench) |
| Sabrina Ionescu | New York Liberty / Guard | Not Selected |
Next Steps in the FIBA World Cup Group Stage
With victories over China and Italy, Team USA has officially punched its ticket to the tournament quarterfinals, according to Athlon Sports. The squad will conclude its group stage schedule with a matchup against the Czech Republic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the captain of Team USA for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup?
New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart serves as the team captain for Team USA in Berlin, according to Athlon Sports.
How did Paige Bueckers react to Breanna Stewart’s performance?
Paige Bueckers left a one-word comment reading “Cap 🫡” on Stewart’s Instagram post celebrating the team’s opening win against China, as reported by Athlon Sports.
Which team does Team USA face next in the group stage?
Team USA wraps up group play with a game against the Czech Republic, having already secured a spot in the quarterfinals.
Who oversees the Team USA women’s national team roster selections?
Sue Bird serves as U.S.
Join the Conversation
How far do you think this mix of veterans and World Cup rookies will go in Berlin? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts on the tournament.
Keep reading