From the start of the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers, Team USA was in focus for multiple reasons. The addition of multiple young stars like Caitlin Clark, Paige Buecker, and Angel Reese upped the interest but also the curiosity of fans.
Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese headline the Complex’s top 10 most influential female athletes of 2026, and on the floor, they showed the reason for such impact. Every young star led the side in at least one category, showing their usability on the star-studded lineup.
While their flawless plays and chemistry earned high praise from fans and critics, CC’s one particular play divided fans over the possible travel.
Fans React To Caitlin Clark’s ‘Controversial’ Play
Team USA was in command of most of the games in the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers but faced some competition from Spain, Italy, and Puto Rico. The game changer on most occasions was the Fever guard who unlocked the opposition defence with her playmaking skill and also range shooting.
In one play, the Fever star created space, stepping away from the defenders and draining a three-pointer. The shot allowed Team USA to put a gap between themselves and the Italian side and control the proceedings.
Did Caitlin Clark travel here? pic.twitter.com/3cdH1xbym9
— Courtside Club (@CourtsideClub_) March 17, 2026
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While there was no whistle from the referee for the play, many fans claimed it was a travel violation, following the player taking four steps for the basket. Many even pointed out that such plays are not allowed in the FIBA competitions.
A fan wrote, “Nope, she knows the rules and took advantage.”
Nope, she knows the rules and took advantage.
— J (@theJthatmatters) March 17, 2026
One fan added, “There is no gather step in FIBA she traveled. Give it up.”
There is no gather step in FIBA she traveled. Give it up
— ✨ Still For Lover Gals ✨ (@Ku_Lo_Snooze) March 17, 2026
Another fan commented, “CC BB IQ is getting in the way of the Haters once again. Great job.”
Right on. CC BB IQ is getting in the way of the Haters once again. Great job.
— Anton Stockl (@StocklAnton) March 17, 2026
A fan wrote, “If you have to explain it. It’s a TRAVEL.”
If you have to explain it. It’s a TRAVEL
— Sybil Grumman (@sybilgrumman) March 18, 2026
One fan mentioned, “There is no gather step in FIBA.”
There is no gather step in FIBA
— LEONARD MOPELI (@LeonardMopeli) March 17, 2026
Caitlin Clark finished the tournament as the top scorer and assist maker for the unbeaten team and earned huge recognition for her performances.
Caitlin Clark Closes The Qualifiers With Major Individual Accolades
Making her debut for the senior national team, Clark urged her fans to keep realistic expectations. Playing for Team USA with a number of Olympic medalists and elite scorers, not many had expected her to outperform them, especially just after returning from the injury.
But Coach Kara Lawson gave the rookies more freedom in her system, which allowed CC to control the pace of the game. while Buckers controlled the defensive end of the floor. They not only led the team in individual stats, but they also delivered it with high efficiency. For her lethal gameplay, CC won the MVP Award.
Second MVP award at only 24. Caitlin Clark, you’re an incredible hooper. 🇺🇸#FIBAWWC x #WeOwnTheGame pic.twitter.com/j2YzfbfyGw
— FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup (@FIBAWWC) March 18, 2026
It’s the second MVP award for Clark on the world stage. She received the honor when she was a part of the FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup in 2021.