USA Basketball announced that two of its marquee players, A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum, will be absent from the upcoming FIBA Women's World Cup. The decision comes as both athletes contend with health issues that have been closely monitored throughout the WNBA season.
Wilson, a four‑time WNBA MVP and Olympic gold medalist, has been managing a heavy workload and needs a brief respite before the playoffs. Plum, meanwhile, has been nursing a calf injury that has lingered despite treatment, raising concerns about her readiness for international competition.
A Youthful Surge
To fill the void, the roster will welcome Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron. Iriafen previously contributed to the U.S. team that secured a World Cup qualifier victory in Puerto Rico, while Citron, who missed the same qualifier due to injury, is set to make her national‑team debut in Germany. Both bring fresh energy and a hunger to prove themselves on the world stage.
The United States will open its tournament against China, a match that promises a dramatic showdown under the basket. China's front line features towering talents such as Zhang Ziyu, Han Xu, and Li Yueru, setting the stage for a compelling battle of size and skill.
Beyond the replacements, the U.S. squad will lean on a new generation of stars, including Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers, and Breanna Stewart, who will share the court with seasoned veterans like Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, Kahleah Copper, Rhyne Howard, Aliyah Boston, Ornella Bankole, and the legendary Lisa Leslie, who once withdrew from a World Cup due to a personal tragedy.