6-foot-4 Angel Reese towered over by 7-foot-4 Ziyu Zhang in stunning side-by-side

Angel Reese met her match on the defensive side of the ball while guarding Ziyu Zhang during Team USA's clash with China in their group opener of the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup on Friday morning.

Reese is taking part in her first FIBA World Cup of her national team career. She stands out as a key player on a star-studded roster featuring herself, Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, and Paige Bueckers among several others.

The U.S. did not have much trouble against China, coasting to a 94-61 blowout win to begin group play. That didn't mean there were no bright spots for the Chinese side. Take in part Zhang, who used her immense height advantage over everyone on Team USA. Reese was no exception as she had trouble keeping the seven-foot-four center in check. There was a clear height different of one foot between Reese and Zhang.

How Angel Reese, USA played against China

Aug 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese (5) reacts against the LA Sparks in the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)

Angel Reese and Team USA had a long day guarding Ziyu Zhang. Despite that, they were dominant to begin their 2026 World Cup journey with a blowout victory.

The U.S. controlled the game from start to finish. They jumped out to a 27-14 lead after the first quarter, outmatching their opponents on both sides of the ball. China was unable to catch up as the Americans kept generating offense throughout the course of the game.

Four players scored in double-digits for the U.S. in the victory. Caitlin Clark led the team with 14 points and 11 assists, Paige Bueckers came next with 14 points and four assists, Rhyne Howard scored 14 points, while Jackie Young provided 12 points and three assists.

The U.S. currently controls the top spot in the Group D standings after beating China. They are in a group with them, Italy and the Czech Republic. The squad that tops the group automatically reaches the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, the second and third-placed sides go to the qualification round that sees the winner of each contest advance to the quarterfinals.

Team USA will look forward to Matchday 2 of group play in the FIBA Women's World Cup. They take on Italy next with tip-off commencing on Sept. 6 at 2:45 p.m. ET.