After a long rehabilitation process, Clark was ready to return to the court and make her senior national team debut with Team USA. Many people kept expectations low for the former Iowa superstar, not knowing what to expect after a long break from the game. Clark demolished those expectations and then some.
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In five games with Team USA in the qualifying tournament, Clark helped lead his team to an undefeated record while playing some incredible basketball in the process. His performance in those games earned him another award for the collection. Clark was named MVP of the tournament.
Clark finished the tournament averaging 11.6 points, 6.4 assists and 1.6 rebounds per game, while also sharing four steals and two blocks in those five games. He shot 53% from the field and 37% from behind the arc, efficiently leading Team USA’s offense. He did all of that primarily off the bench, which makes it even more impressive.While Team USA had already secured its spot at the 2026 FIBA World Cup prior to the tournament, this was still a great opportunity for Clark to get back on the court and shake off some rust. While the future of the 2026 WNBA is still uncertain, there is no doubt that Clark will be ready to go when the Indiana Fever return to the court.
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It was a difficult second season in the WNBA for Clark, who battled numerous ailments during an injury-plagued campaign. If her play in this tournament is any indication, she has returned to health and the rest of the WNBA will be in serious trouble when they play the Fever.
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This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Caitlin Clark Named MVP of FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament