WNBA star Breanna Stewart is embracing her role as captain for Team USA at the FIBA Women's World Cup, expressing pride in representing the United States as the team aims for its fifth consecutive championship. Stewart, a veteran of international play, stated that she always wants to represent Team USA whenever called upon.
"It feels great," Stewart told OutKick regarding her participation. "I think that any time I can represent Team USA I want to. I've had the incredible opportunity of being able to do it for a long time and since I was really young, and every time I get the call I want to show up."
Stewart's tenure with USA Basketball began in 2009 at the U16 level. Her decorated international career includes three Olympic gold medals and three World Cup championships, having also been named MVP of the 2018 World Cup. A victory in Berlin would mark her fourth World Cup title, continuing a significant dynasty in women's basketball.
Team USA advanced through group play undefeated, though a narrow 55-52 victory over Italy highlighted a moment of vulnerability. Stewart, however, led the team with 19 points, seven rebounds, and six assists in a subsequent 105-64 win against Czechia. She is currently averaging 10.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, and three assists per game through the initial stages of the tournament.
Stewart's sentiments stand in contrast to some American athletes who have expressed mixed feelings about representing the U.S. during international competitions. During the 2026 Winter Olympics, freestyle skier Hunter Hess noted "mixed emotions" due to the political climate and immigration policies, stating that wearing the flag did not equate to endorsing all U.S. actions. Fellow skier Chris Lillis also voiced concern over domestic issues, expressing heartbreak over events in the United States and advocating for respect for all citizens' rights.
Stewart herself has engaged in political activism, notably holding an "Abolish ICE" sign and speaking on social justice and LGBTQ+ rights. However, when discussing her role with Team USA, her focus remained on national pride and the pursuit of another championship.
The U.S. team is scheduled to face Hungary in the quarterfinals, a team that reached the stage for the first time in 40 years after defeating Japan. Team USA is three wins away from another title, with Stewart eager to lead the way.
