Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese join forces for USA in World Cup

In Berlin, Germany, the FIBA Women's World Cup is set to take place from September 4 to September 13, 2026. USA Basketball has announced its 12-player roster, aiming to secure a fifth consecutive World Cup title. The team features a mix of experienced players and newcomers, including Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers, who will all be making their World Cup debuts. The roster also includes Olympic medalists such as A'ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart, who have previously excelled in international competitions. The U.S. team is considered the favorite due to its depth and talent pool, having won its last 66 games in Olympic and World Cup play since 2006. The tournament will kick off with a match against China, followed by games against Italy and the Czech Republic. The selection of the team was made by Sue Bird, the managing director of USA Basketball, marking her first major tournament roster since taking on the role. The inclusion of Clark, Reese, and Bueckers highlights a new generation of players stepping into significant roles on the international stage, while the absence of established stars like Sabrina Ionescu has raised eyebrows. The upcoming World Cup is seen as a crucial opportunity for these young athletes to showcase their skills and contribute to the team's legacy.