Team USA returns to action Sunday when it faces Italy in its second Group D game at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin, Germany.
The United States opened its title defense Friday with a 94-61 victory over China. Kara Lawson’s team used a balanced attack to pull away, with Caitlin Clark and Rhyne Howard each scoring 14 points. Clark also finished with 11 assists in her World Cup debut.
Italy also enters the matchup at 1-0 after defeating Czechia 63-54 in its opener. The result gives both teams a chance to take control of Group D with another victory, while the U.S. continues its pursuit of a fifth consecutive World Cup championship.
Italy vs USA: TV Channel and Live Stream Options
Yukihito Taguchi-USA TODAY Sports
- Time: 2:45 p.m. ET
- TV: TNT
- Live Stream: HBO Max
TNT has the U.S. television broadcast, while the game is also available to stream on HBO Max.
Team USA vs. Italy Preview
Team USA
Kara Lawson is leading Team USA in her first World Cup as head coach. The Americans entered the tournament as the four-time defending champions and are seeking their 12th World Cup title.
Clark was one of the biggest storylines in the team’s opening game. The Indiana Fever guard came off the bench against China but made an immediate impact, finishing with 14 points and 11 assists in 25 minutes.
Paige Bueckers and Rhyne Howard also scored 14 points against China, while Breanna Stewart, Angel Reese and the rest of the U.S. roster provide Lawson with considerable depth.
The U.S. roster includes Clark, Bueckers, Stewart, Reese, Aliyah Boston, Napheesa Collier, Chelsea Gray, Kahleah Copper, Rhyne Howard, Kiki Iriafen, Jackie Young and Sonia Citron.
Italy
Italy began its World Cup campaign with a 63-54 win over Czechia. The Italians are competing in their first Women’s World Cup since 1994 and will face a significant challenge against the defending champions.
Cecilia Zandalasini is one of Italy’s key players and brings WNBA experience to the matchup. The Golden State Valkyries forward is expected to play an important role as Italy tries to remain unbeaten in Group D.
The U.S. and Italy are both 1-0 entering Sunday’s game, making the matchup important for positioning in the group. The winner will take another step toward securing a favorable path into the knockout stage.
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