A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum Will Not Play in the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup
Two star players removed from the U.S. National Team roster due to health issues and back pain have been replaced by new names.
Star player A'ja Wilson, who plays for the Las Vegas Aces, and her teammate Kelsey Plum will not be able to take part in the U.S. National Team at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup due to health and back issues.
Health Issues and Withdrawal from the Roster
A'ja Wilson will not compete with the U.S. National Team at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup, prioritizing her health following recent back problems.
It was feared that the condition of the star player, who appeared on the injury report twice last week due to a back ailment, would worsen because of the intense tournament schedule.
Statement by USA Basketball
In an official statement made by USA Basketball on Monday, it was announced that both A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum will miss the tournament due to health concerns.
Kelsey Plum will also be unable to play in the remaining matches of the 2026 WNBA season.
Replacement Players Added
Following the removal of A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum from the roster, Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron from the Washington team were called up to the U.S. national team roster.
International Achievements and Tournament Details
Wilson's absence means the loss of a major name from the roster who was named MVP at the 2024 Paris Olympics and the 2022 World Cup.
At the World Cup to be held in Germany, experienced names such as Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, and Kahleah Copper, as well as young players participating in the tournament for the first time, will take the floor.
The U.S. National Team will play its first match in the tournament against China on Friday.