Bueckers shines as USA rout Puerto Rico in FIBA World Cup Qualifying Tournament
By Maxwell Kumoye
The United States Women's National Basketball Team delivered a dominant performance to defeat host Puerto Rico Women's National Basketball Team 91–48 in their second game of the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament, silencing a packed crowd at “El Choli”.
The Americans never trailed in the contest, controlling the game from start to finish while handing Puerto Rico another setback in the tournament.
Three players made their first senior national team start, with Monique Billings, Paige Bueckers and Kiki Iriafen earning the nod.
Bueckers led the scoring with 16 points, adding four rebounds and three assists, while Angel Reese powered the bench with a double-double of 10 points and 13 rebounds.
Head coach Kara Lawson praised the hosts’ effort but admitted her team is still refining its rhythm.
“I thought Puerto Rico played very, very hard. We had some good spots but also some rough spots, and that’s good because it allows us to figure things out,” Lawson said.
The U.S. imposed its authority in the paint, out rebounding Puerto Rico 49-30 and outscoring them 38-14 inside while also recording eight blocks.
Reese led the charge on the boards as the Americans dominated physically at both ends of the court.
Despite the quick turnaround after playing just over 24 hours earlier, the Americans started fast.
Kelsey Plum sparked an early 12-3 run with eight quick points, setting the tone before Puerto Rico called a timeout.
The U.S. shot an impressive 53.3 percent from the field in the first half and held the hosts to just 19 points to take a commanding 46-19 lead into halftime.
Plum scored 10 of her 12 points before the break, while Iriafen was flawless from the floor, hitting all five of her shots to finish with 10 points and five rebounds.
“It’s such an honour to be super young in my career and to play at this level,” Iriafen said. “I’m just trying to take in every moment.”
Puerto Rico showed a fight after the restart, briefly trimming the deficit, but Bueckers and Jackie Young steadied the Americans in the third quarter, combining for 11 points to keep the game firmly under U.S. control.
Young ended the night with nine points and three assists on a perfect shooting display.
While Puerto Rico forced 18 turnovers, the Americans’ offensive depth proved overwhelming. The team recorded 28 assists and shot 51.5 percent from the field, a reflection of the fluid ball movement Lawson has been demanding.
“The unselfishness on our team is really high,” Lawson added. “They understand we have to play together to win.”
The victory improves the United States’ record against Puerto Rico to 11-1 in senior competitions.
The Americans will now enjoy a day’s rest before returning to action against the Italy Women's National Basketball Team on March 14.
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