As the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup approaches, Team USA coach Kara Lawson is candid about the formidable challenges that lie ahead. With the tournament set to kick off on Friday, September 4, Lawson emphasizes that this World Cup may be the most difficult yet for the American squad, given the significant improvements in international competition.
The U.S. women's basketball team has a storied history, having claimed eight consecutive Olympic gold medals and winning nine of the last twelve World Cups since 1979. However, Lawson notes that the global landscape of women's basketball is evolving rapidly, creating a more competitive environment. "There’s no question that the world is improving at a rapid rate. It’s so exciting to see, and I see it at every level, obviously, being a college coach," she stated. This evolution in the sport is evident in the depth and quality of rosters from other countries, which poses a serious challenge for Team USA.
Lawson's concerns are compounded by the recent announcement that key players A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum will not participate in the tournament due to health issues. Their absence will test the depth of Team USA, as they have been replaced by Washington Mystics players Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen, both of whom are set to make their senior national team and tournament debuts. This change adds to a roster that already includes seven newcomers, such as Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers, Aliyah Boston, and Rhyne Howard. Notably, nine players on the roster, including Napheesa Collier and Jackie Young, have never played in a World Cup, although they have experience in other international competitions.
Lawson recognizes the challenges posed by the rigorous schedule and high stakes of the World Cup. She remarked, "It’s the best teams, and it’s a tough schedule, and it’s short — it’s all those things you want to say it is, but at the end of the day, every team’s job is to try and win this. And so we’re hungry, and we’re focused on trying to put our best performances on display and see if we can get the job done." This determination reflects the team's commitment to excellence, even in the face of adversity.
With only a few days to prepare for the tournament, Lawson and her coaching staff are focused on maximizing their time together. The team will open the group phase against China on Friday at 8:15 a.m. ET, followed by matches against Italy and Czechia on Sunday and Monday, respectively. Lawson expressed the importance of being focused and efficient during their preparation, stating, "We don’t want to waste time forgetting things or not having things down that have already been taught because of the short lead-up." This approach is crucial for building momentum as they navigate through the tournament.
As Team USA embarks on this journey, the stakes are high, and the competition is fierce. Lawson’s leadership and the team's adaptability will be tested as they aim to continue their legacy of success in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. The upcoming matches will not only challenge their skills but also their resilience as they strive for gold in a tournament that promises to be one of the most competitive in recent history.
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