Team USA is competing in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup without two of its prominent WNBA stars, A’ja Wilson and
USA Basketball confirmed that the decision for both players to step away was based on health-related factors. To maintain a full 12-player squad for the competition, the organization called upon Washington Mystics players Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen to serve as replacements.
Details Regarding Player Withdrawals
A’ja Wilson, a four-time WNBA MVP who served as a key scorer for the United States during the 2024 Paris Olympics, withdrew from the World Cup on August 31. While USA Basketball did not release a specific medical diagnosis, Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon indicated that Wilson had been managing persistent back soreness. Reports have noted that the heavy workload Wilson carried throughout the WNBA season necessitated a period of rest and recovery.
Kelsey Plum’s absence is attributed to a documented lower-leg and calf injury that impacted her availability for much of the recent WNBA season. The Phoenix Mercury had previously ruled her out for the remainder of their regular season schedule. Plum noted that despite her efforts to rehabilitate and return to play, she was unable to recover in time to participate in the international tournament.
Impact on the U.S. Roster
The withdrawal of both players occurred prior to the start of the World Cup, meaning their absence from the current quarterfinal match against Hungary is a result of their pre-tournament departure rather than a last-minute roster change. The inclusion of Citron and Iriafen ensured that the United States maintained a complete roster as they navigated the tournament schedule. Despite the loss of two experienced players, the team has continued its campaign in the FIBA event with the updated lineup.
