Caitlin Clark firmly addressed inquiries regarding her relationship with Angel Reese during post-game media availability after Team USA secured its fifth consecutive gold medal at the World Cup. After the United States overcame a 14-point deficit to defeat France 97-79 on September 13, a reporter questioned Clark about whether she and Reese had become friends. Clark responded directly, stating, “We’ve always been friends. Don’t try to do that,” while gesturing toward the reporter. She later approached the reporter again as she left the area to reiterate her sentiment.
The victory featured a dominant offensive turnaround, as the U.S. outscored France 80-59 following a 20-17 first-quarter deficit. Breanna Stewart earned tournament MVP honors, finishing with 22 points, 10 assists, and four rebounds. Additional scoring came from Jackie Young with 18 points, Kahleah Copper with 15, and both Chelsea Gray and Clark, who contributed 12 points each. A pivotal moment occurred just before halftime when Reese forced a turnover that set up a three-pointer by Clark, narrowing France’s lead to two points.
Caitlin Clark FIBA World Cup Statistics
- Points: 7.8
- Assists: 5.3
- Rebounds: 2.2
- Steals: 0.7
- Field goal percentage: 35.9
Angel Reese FIBA World Cup Statistics
- Points: 7.2
- Assists: 0.7
- Rebounds: 5
- Steals: 1.2
- Blocks: 0.8
- Field goal percentage: 59.1
Both players have been key components of the team’s youth-led roster. Following a 108-56 win against Hungary on September 10, Reese emphasized the growing chemistry between them, noting that because they have faced each other frequently throughout their careers, they are highly familiar with one another’s tendencies on the court. Reese remarked that their ability to easily distribute the ball and anticipate spots on the floor will continue to develop as they remain teammates for the U.S. national program. The report also notes that team USA finished with five players in double figures. The report also notes that including a momentum-shifting sequence with less than 10 seconds remaining before the half, clark and Reese made major contributions. The report also notes that reese, who had a budding connection with Clark during the World Cup, could be seen cheering the star guard on from the sidelines. The report also notes that maybe two, i kinda got one to her today. The report also notes that here’s how Clark did across six contests at the World Cup.