Caitlin Clark expects Cecilia Zandalasini to lead Italy against them in their upcoming FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup game.
Fresh off their 94-61 win over China in their first game of the ongoing basketball World Cup in Berlin, Germany, Clark has already set her eyes on their next opponent.
During her postgame interview on Friday, the Indiana Fever star mentioned that Golden State Valkyries forward Zandalasini will be the player to watch against Italy.
“Obviously, Zandalasini has had an incredible year with the Valkyries, and [Golden State coach Natalie Nakase], who’s on our staff, has been able to coach her and really get the best out of her,” Clark said. “I think she’s an incredible player.”
Zandalasini has been a valuable starter for the Valkyries this season, as she’s averaging 8.8 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 35 games and 32 starts.
Clark also pointed out the different challenges that Zandalasini can present during their Group D matchup on Sunday.
“It seems like every game, she continues to get better and better,” Clark continued. “She can stretch the floor. She can score in the midrange, she has great size, she’s athletic.”
Zandalasini has played a major role in Golden State’s success this season, as the team is currently second in the league standings with a 29-11 record.
This is why Clark believes their game plan has to focus on containing Zandalasini’s production.
“She’ll be one of the keys to our scouting report, I’m sure,” The Fever guard revealed. “But she’s certainly had a tremendous year, and I would expect her to do the same for Italy.”
Team USA and Italy will collide at Uber Arena for a chance to remain undefeated in their group and inch closer toward an outright ticket to the quarterfinal round.
