With a New-Look Roster and No A'ja Wilson the US FIBA World Cup Title Defense Gets Tougher
The Americans will rely on a younger core after losing four-time WNBA MVP A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum, officials said.
- On Thursday, Sept. 3, four-time WNBA MVP A'ja Wilson withdrew from the FIBA World Cup citing health issues, leaving the United States to chase a fifth consecutive title beginning Friday.
- The United States has dominated the FIBA World Cup for nearly two decades, winning four straight titles, though France nearly defeated the Americans in the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medal game.
- Following Wilson and Phoenix Mercury guard Kelsey Plum's withdrawal, U.S. coach Kara Lawson called up Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen. "We don't have time to be worried about who's not here," Lawson told reporters.
- Coach Lawson expects heightened competition, stating "it's going to be the most difficult World Cup to win that we've had," as France and Spain mount campaigns against the reigning champions.
- FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis noted the schedule change creates a dedicated spot for the women's game, allowing sponsors to focus more on the World Cup independent of the men's tournament.
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15 Articles
“A One-Point Game": WNBA Reporters issue Team USA Warning Over France’s World Cup Threat
Team USA’s throne in women’s basketball will be under strain as they begin their campaign as defending champions at the FIBA World Cup in Germany. While they remain the most talented team in the tournament, A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum’s decision to withdraw could eventually cost the Americans, according to The Athletic’s WNBA reporter, Chantel […]
USA Women's Basketball: Caitlin Clark to Lead Team at World Cup Without A'ja Wilson - Archysport
The United States women’s national basketball team faces a formidable challenge at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup beginning Friday, September 4, in Berlin, Germany, as the four-time defending champions attempt to secure their fifth global title amidst a wave of roster turnover and fierce international competition. USA Basketball announced on Monday, August 31, that ...
‘That’s Called Cowardice,’ ‘Stop Spreading Hate’ – Jason Whitlock’s A’ja Wilson Criticism Sparks Huge Outrage Ahead of FIBA World Cup
Jason Whitlock sparks outrage by claiming A'ja Wilson withdrew from the FIBA World Cup to force Caitlin Clark into a high-pressure spotlight.
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