Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese stood on the court as teammates for the first time in the FIBA Women’s World Cup. For a long time, many discussed the bad blood between these arch-rivals. Now, these two competitors had to adapt. They played for the same team.
During the third quarter, Clark found Reese near the basket. She delivered a swift pass. Reese caught the ball and scored an easy bucket. It was a golden opportunity to break the ice between the two stars. Many wondered how these two would work together, but the answer was explicit on the court.
The United States team played Senegal on March 11, 2026. This contest was part of the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The United States won 110-46 in a dominant performance.
Clark had been in abeyance before this game. She missed eight months of play because of a mishap involving a right groin injury. Her professional season ended prematurely in July 2025. Although some were pessimistic about her return, she showed significant resilience. Clark recorded 17 points and a game-high 12 assists in only 19 minutes. Reese finished the contest with six points and eight rebounds.
Caitlin Clark to Angel Reese for an easy bucket. #USABasketball pic.twitter.com/dfFL5tzmdH
— Chicago State of Mind Sports (@ChiStateOfMind_) March 11, 2026
Fans took notice of the chemistry on social media. One fan said the national team will be prosperous even after veteran players retire.
“Team USA gone be alright when the big dogs retire. At least the women team will be,” another reacted.
Team USA gone be alright when the big dogs retire. At least the women team will be💀 https://t.co/tmNVGWbOPA
— Chris (@ctjr_) March 11, 2026
Another fan shared a clip of Clark providing assistance to Paige Bueckers for a three-pointer.
“And Caitlin Clark to Paige Buekers assists”
And Caitlin Clark to Paige Buekers assists 😮💨😌🎯 pic.twitter.com/p1vqX8bpT1
— Courtside 22 (@courtsidestan) March 11, 2026
“CAITLIN CLARK PG1,” one wrote.
“Caitlin Clark to Angel Reese for an easy bucket,” one shared.
Some people asked why Clark wore the No. 12 instead of her signature 22.
“Why is Caitlin still not in #22 jersey?”
Why is Caitlin still not in #22 jersey?
— Kent Stookey (@stookey46321) March 12, 2026
USA Basketball uses a strict tradition for jersey numbers. It limits players to numbers four through 15. This allows the organization to keep in touch with its heritage. The rule once helped referees communicate in a crisis, but now it serves as a point of legacy.
The team continues its schedule on Thursday against Puerto Rico at 8 p.m. ET. Along with Reese and Clark, Bueckers made her senior debut in the victory. The team wants to extend an Olympic gold streak that began in 1996.
Related: Caitlin Clark’s Blunt Take Emerges on Angel Reese, Team USA Partnership