The United States won 94-61 against China in their opening Group D match at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in Berlin on September 4, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4].
China’s 19-year-old center Zhang Ziyu, standing 2.2 meters (7-foot-3), scored 13 points, grabbed six rebounds, blocked two shots, and made nine of 10 free throws [1, 2, 3, 4]. Her imposing height caused tactical challenges for the U.S. defense, forcing lane adjustments and defensive switches to contain her presence [1, 2, 3].
U.S. guard Caitlin Clark led her team with 14 points and 11 assists, recording the highest assist total by a U.S. player in a Women’s World Cup game since 1998 [1, 2, 4]. Clark said, "This was a different type of basketball game than I've probably ever played in my entire life. I've never played against a woman of that size. She obviously presented some challenges for us, but you've got to give our post players a lot of credit" [2].
Fellow U.S. player Paige Bueckers also scored 14 points and shared a lighthearted moment with Zhang after the game, highlighting their stark height difference [1, 2, 3].
Social media highlighted Zhang’s towering figure and skills, with many comparing the matchup to "adults playing children" [1, 2, 3]. According to Fox News, Angel Reese employed aggressive defense and fouling tactics to try to slow Zhang’s impact [4]. Fox News commentary also noted Zhang as a top prospect for the 2027 WNBA Draft but raised questions about her adaptation to the WNBA’s physical and mental demands [4].
The United States and China remain in Group D, with more matches scheduled as the tournament progresses.
