U.S. Women’s National Team Prepares for World Cup with Star Players

Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers are set to debut in the World Cup as part of the U.S. women’s national team next month. They aim to secure a fifth consecutive FIBA World Cup victory for the U.S. The team also features Olympic medalists like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, Kahleah Copper, and Kelsey Plum.

A’ja Wilson, a four-time WNBA MVP, expressed her enthusiasm and determination. ‘It’s always good when you compete for a gold medal, it’s a big honor,’ Wilson said. ‘I don’t take this lightly. Time to go there, have some fun, and win.’

The team is also strengthened by the inclusion of newcomers Rhyne Howard and Aliyah Boston, who are making their World Cup debuts.

I’m so excited to announce the 2026 USA Basketball Women’s National Team, said Sue Bird, the USA Basketball national team managing director. She emphasized the talent within the group and the privilege of wearing a USA jersey. Bird noted the significance of aiming for another gold medal and expressed eagerness to witness the team’s achievements.

This marks the first time the team selection was handled by a managing director, rather than a committee, and will be coached by Kara Lawson. Breanna Stewart joins an elite group in U.S. history by appearing in her fourth World Cup, alongside Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi.

The team will face China, Italy, and the Czech Republic in the pool stage, competing in Berlin from September 4-13. To accommodate this event, the WNBA will pause its season for nearly three weeks. Clark, Bueckers, and Reese had already shown their capabilities by winning the qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico in March.

Sabrina Ionescu, who has previously been an integral part of the U.S. team, is absent this time. Bird mentioned she contacted many players who didn’t make the team, highlighting the abundance of talent and commitment needed.

Alyssa Thomas, a key contributor to the U.S. Olympic gold in Paris, and Olivia Miles, a promising Minnesota rookie and a WNBA Rookie of the Year frontrunner, have also not participated in USA Basketball camps recently. Despite this, Bird recognized Miles as an exceptional talent poised for future involvement.

For more updates on the WNBA, visit the AP WNBA.