A roster reshaped
The U.S. women’s basketball team will open its FIBA Women’s World Cup campaign on Friday against China, but it will do so without two of its most prominent stars. Four‑time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson, who was named the most outstanding player of the 2024 Paris Olympics and the 2022 Women’s World Cup, will miss the tournament due to health concerns. She will be replaced by Washington teammate Kiki Iriafen, who previously helped the U.S. win the 2023 World Cup qualifier in Puerto Rico.
Veteran guard Kelsey Plum, a key figure in the gold‑medal victory over France in Paris, has been sidelined by a persistent calf injury. Her spot on the roster will be taken by teammate Sonia Citron, who missed the 2023 qualifier because of injury and is now set to make her national‑team debut in Germany.
Despite the absences, the American squad remains stacked with talent. Young phenoms such as Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers are expected to shoulder greater responsibility, while returning medalists Breanna Stewart, Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, Kahleah Copper, Rhyne Howard and Aliyah Boston will make their World Cup debuts.
The team also includes Napheesa Collier, who adds depth after a strong season, and the coaching staff hopes the blend of youth and experience will keep the U.S. on its historic winning streak.
China, meanwhile, boasts a formidable front line featuring 7‑foot‑3 center Zhang Ziyu, 6‑10 forward Han Xu and 6‑7 Li Yueru. The matchup promises a clash of size and skill, echoing the rivalry that defined the 2022 World Cup final.
The United States has dominated the Women’s World Cup since its inception, capturing every title except for a bronze‑medal finish in 2006. That year, Lisa Leslie withdrew from the competition after a car accident involving her uncle, a setback that still resonates in the program’s history.
With the tournament underway, the U.S. hopes to extend its reign while giving emerging stars a chance to shine on the global stage.