As Team USA gears up for the FIBA Women's World Cup in Berlin, a prominent sports commentator, Rachel DeMita, has voiced skepticism regarding the likelihood of Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark securing a starting spot. Her remarks highlight a potential dilemma for the coaching staff, as benching such a high-profile player could trigger widespread public discussion, despite the team's historical approach to roster management and prioritizing experienced athletes.
DeMita, a former collegiate basketball player and host of Courtside Club, has raised concerns about possible internal conflicts over the lineup for Team USA at the 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup. Despite Caitlin Clark's status as the most recognized and influential figure in women's basketball, DeMita questions whether head coach Kara Lawson will include the Fever's standout player in the initial five. DeMita points to the Team USA qualifying tournament held earlier this year in San Juan as an indicator of the coaching staff's strategy. During those games, Coach Lawson and assistant Nate Tibbetts frequently altered the starting lineup for nearly every match. Notably, Clark was the last among the 12-member squad to join the starting lineup, making her sole start against New Zealand before returning to a reserve role against Spain.
DeMita commented, “I anticipate a lot of discussion if she doesn’t start, but I’m not convinced she will.” She added, “I’m unsure how they’ll handle it… if they’ll prioritize seniority… players who have previous experience, even if they aren’t necessarily superior players to those on the bench.” DeMita suggested that if USA Basketball adheres to a veteran-first policy, established players like Chelsea Gray, Kahleah Copper, Napheesa Collier, Breanna Stewart, and Aliyah Boston would likely fill the starting roles. She also drew attention to the fundamental differences in coaching philosophies between international basketball and the traditional American system. In international play, coaches often deploy star players off the bench to optimize rotations and create stronger closing lineups. Conversely, American sports culture typically expects the five most skilled players to begin the game.
DeMita explained, “In many countries, the starting five aren’t necessarily considered the best five players on the team. They don’t always begin the game with their top five performers.” She contrasted this by saying, “However, in American basketball, the five best players always start. That’s just how the American system operates, and I believe Team USA should adhere to that principle.” With key veterans A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum sidelined due to injuries for the tournament, the responsibilities for guard play and offensive output will heavily fall on Clark and fellow newcomers Paige Bueckers and Sonia Citron. Team USA is scheduled to kick off its FIBA World Cup campaign against China on September 4th, followed by matches against Italy on September 6th and the Czech Republic on September 7th. The defending champions, who have won the title four times, are widely expected to easily progress beyond the group stage and into the knockout rounds.
The upcoming FIBA Women's World Cup presents a compelling challenge for Team USA's coaching staff as they navigate the integration of a highly popular, young talent like Caitlin Clark into a roster potentially dominated by seasoned veterans. The decision regarding her starting status will not only impact team dynamics but also draw significant public attention, highlighting the cultural differences in how starting lineups are perceived in international versus American basketball. Ultimately, the team's performance in the group stage, beginning with their first match against China, will set the tone for their championship aspirations and the role Clark will play on this star-studded squad.
