The United States' FIBA World Cup roster for the upcoming tournament in Berlin, Germany, features a new generation of stars, with Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu being a notable omission. The 12-player team, unveiled on NBC’s “TODAY” show, includes seven players making their World Cup debuts, such as Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, Angel Reese, Aliyah Boston, Rhyne Howard, Jackie Young, and Napheesa Collier.
This roster marks the first major international competition selection under Sue Bird, who now serves as USA Basketball’s senior women’s national team managing director. Bird also selected the team for the World Cup qualifying tournament held in Puerto Rico earlier this year.
Veteran players Breanna Stewart, Chelsea Gray, Kahleah Copper, Kelsey Plum, and A'ja Wilson will provide experience to the squad. Stewart is set to make her fourth World Cup appearance, tying her with Diana Taurasi, and joining Bird as one of the few players with such a distinction.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from September 4-13 in Berlin. Ionescu, who was part of the U.S. teams that won gold at the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Paris Games, is one of five players from the 2024 Olympic roster who will not be competing in this World Cup. Other Olympians not on the roster include Diana Taurasi, Jewell Loyd, Brittney Griner, and Alyssa Thomas.
Ionescu attended the U.S. women’s national team training camp in Phoenix in April, but an injury sustained early in the WNBA season has raised questions about whether her health status influenced the selection committee's decision. Notably, Kelsey Plum, who has also faced injury challenges and played in only 14 WNBA games this season, secured a spot on the roster. Napheesa Collier, who returned to play in late July after ankle surgeries, was also selected.
Several players from the New York Liberty are expected to participate in the World Cup representing their respective countries. Leonie Fiebich is anticipated to play for host nation Germany, though Satou Sabally's availability for Germany remains uncertain as she is still in concussion protocol. France may see Marine Johannès, Pauline Astier, and Marine Fauthoux on its roster, while Raquel Carrera could represent Spain and Han Xu is a candidate for China.