The United States women’s basketball team defeated Spain 76-66 to secure a spot in the gold medal game of the FIBA World Cup in Germany, overcoming a sluggish start behind Breanna Stewart’s 16 points and six rebounds, according to tournament reporting. Despite the double-digit final margin, head coach Kara Lawson’s bench rotation choices, particularly regarding guard Caitlin Clark, drew immediate critique from analysts and former players.
Rotation Decisions Spark Debate Over Guard Utilization
Team USA had to rally from an early 9-16 deficit against Spain before pulling away late. Veteran sports analyst Skip Bayless argued that the Americans complicated their path to victory by limiting Caitlin Clark to just 16 minutes off the bench. According to Bayless, the team’s primary playmaker should start and orchestrate the offense, though he noted that Lawson likely avoided starting her to prevent friction with veterans.
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Clark finished the contest with one point, one rebound, one assist, and one steal. She attempted only three shots—all from beyond the arc—missing each one, while converting 1-of-3 free throw attempts. Despite her quiet offensive output, she posted a plus-16 rating, which ranked second on the team behind Aaliyah Boston’s plus-21, according to official game statistics.
Did you know? Caitlin Clark leads Team USA in total assists during the tournament despite playing a limited reserve role in multiple matchups under head coach Kara Lawson.
Veteran Leadership Secures Semifinal Victory
With the perimeter offense struggling—the Americans shot just 3-of-18 from 3-point range and missed eight free throws—veteran production carried the squad. Former WNBA star and three-time Olympic gold medalist Tina Charles praised Breanna Stewart for steadying the team when Spain tied the game at 58-58 heading into the fourth quarter.
“Thank God for Stewie,” Charles stated regarding the forward’s impact. Charles added that the offense ignited whenever players attacked the paint, highlighting contributions from Kahleah Copper as the Americans eventually pulled away.
Comparing Assist Totals Across Tournament Matchups
Ball movement fluctuated noticeably depending on lineup deployment throughout the tournament. Team USA recorded only 13 assists against Spain, marking their second-lowest total of the event. Their lowest assist output came against Italy in the preliminary round with 11, another game where Clark played 18 minutes and finished with one point and one assist.
By contrast, the Americans registered at least 26 assists in their other three tournament games where Clark served as a featured playmaker. Team USA finished the semifinal shooting 23-of-58 from the field overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Team USA vs. Spain semifinal?
The United States defeated Spain 76-66 to advance to the gold medal game of the FIBA World Cup.
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How many minutes did Caitlin Clark play against Spain?
Caitlin Clark played 16 minutes, marking the third-lowest total among the 10 players utilized by coach Kara Lawson.
Who led Team USA in scoring during the win?
Breanna Stewart led the Americans with 16 points and six rebounds.
Join the Discussion
What are your thoughts on Team USA’s rotation strategy in the tournament? Leave a comment below to share your perspective with other basketball fans.
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