Team USA recorded a 110-46 victory over Senegal in the opening game of the FIBA World Cup qualifiers. Debutants Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese shone in the game against Senegal, proving their selection for the national team.
While WNBA rookies’ popularity already drew many eyeballs to the event, one particular fan was a huge surprise to many. Puerto Rico Coach Jerry Batista was looking to take his side against Team USA, and his daughter was showing support to two particular players from the opposition camp.
Puerto Rico Coach’s Daughter’s Message For Caitlin Clark And Paige Bueckers
Team USA is already looking to integrate young WNBA stars into senior-level games and used the World Cup qualifiers platform to do so. Defending champions were already qualified for the September event, but Kara Lawson put her young team on the court, giving them experience at the highest level of basketball.
During the second game of the competition, against host nation Puerto Rico, one sign that caught attention was from Puerto Rican coach Jerry Batista’s daughter. She held a sign, “Coach Batista is my dad, but… I’m here to see Paige & Caitlin.”
Everyone's excited to see Paige & Caitlin play together, even the daughter of Puerto Rico's head coach 😅😂@FIBAWWC | #FIBAWWC pic.twitter.com/PKIOTTHpzH
— TNT Sports U.S. (@TNTSportsUS) March 13, 2026
Interestingly, she was sitting close to Puerto Rica camp. But despite the family ties and nationality, the young one made it clear which players she had come to watch.
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Both stars didn’t disappoint the young fan who entered the court early, delivering for Team USA as they won their second game in a row. The Wings’ guard was more clinical in Game 2 and led the side to victory.
Paige Bueckers Leads Team USA In Difficult Game
After delivering effective, efficient performances in the WNBA and the Unrivalled league, the 24-year-old player quickly became a key figure on her teams. For the national side, the Wings guard teamed up with Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark, making an explosive offensive lineup.
In the first game, Clark scored 17 points and dished 12 assists, while PB had 9 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists in 14 minutes. Starting against Puerto Rico, Bueckers dropped 16 points with four rebounds, three assists, and three steals. The former UConn star went 7-for-12 from the field, helping the team take control of the game.
Paige Bueckers tonight 🔥
— Women’s Hoops Network (@WomensHoops_USA) March 13, 2026
• 16 points
• 4 rebounds
• 3 assists
• 3 steals
• 7/12 FGpic.twitter.com/iEISAyb5HR
Apart from the Wings’ guard, Reese also delivered a double-double performance in Team USA’s commanding 91-48 win over the host nation.