Road to Berlin
Team USA has announced its 12‑player roster for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Berlin this September. The lineup features three Las Vegas Aces players — Chelsea Gray, A’ja Wilson and Jackie Young — who are expected to play pivotal roles as the United States chases a fifth straight gold medal.
The squad blends veteran championship experience with emerging talent. Alongside the Aces veterans, the roster includes Aliyah Boston, Paige Bueckers, Caitlin Clark, Napheesa Collier, Kahleah Copper, Rhyne Howard, Kelsey Plum, Angel Reese and Breanna Stewart, each bringing a mix of Olympic golds, World Cup medals and WNBA accolades.
Wilson, the 2022 World Cup MVP, led the USA in scoring and rebounding, while Gray and Young are set to make their FIBA World Cup debuts. Their inclusion highlights the Aces’ continued influence on the national team.
Head coach Kara Lawson, a Duke University alumna, will be supported by assistants Natalie Nakase, Nate Tibbetts and Stephanie White. Together they aim to guide a team that boasts 14 Olympic and nine World Cup gold medals, 58 WNBA All‑Star appearances and 16 WNBA titles.
The Americans open their tournament against China on September 4, a rematch of the 2022 final that ended 83‑61 in favor of the USA. With group play concluding on September 10, the quarterfinals, semifinals and final will unfold through September 13, offering the USA a chance to add a 12th overall world crown to its storied legacy.