Team USA ranked: Which players can help deliver FIBA World Cup gold - USA Today
Team USA is preparing for the 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in Berlin, featuring a mix of veteran stars and new talent. The team aims to secure its fifth consecutive gold medal despite the absence of key players.
Why it matters
The tournament is a major event in international women's sports, showcasing the depth and evolution of the U.S. national basketball program.
Hear this story The 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup is one day away.
On Friday, Sept. 4, USA Basketball will compete in Berlin, Germany. The World Cup roster is headlined by new faces like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese and bolstered by veteran players such as Breanna Stewart and Chelsea Gray. Team USA will be without mainstays A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum , who won't play due to health reasons, but is expected to remain competitive.
"What I love about this team, it's got experience ― internationally, WNBA, you name it ― it also has youth. You need both those energies," Sue Bird, USA Basketball women’s national team managing director, said. "You need some old heads. You need some young'uns. It kind of brings out the best on both sides, but for the young players, especially, they'll get really good experience."
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