Team USA women’s basketball has revealed its training camp roster for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup ahead of the event, which will take place in September 2026. The list of participants includes veteran stars such as Brittney Griner and Kelsey Plum, as well as rising talents like Aliyah Boston and Veronica Burton. However, the omission of Caitlin Clark from the promotional graphic has raised eyebrows. Despite her status as one of the most popular players in women’s basketball, Clark was left out of the official image, prompting fans to speculate about the reasons behind the decision. Some believe her absence from the Paris Olympics and a series of injuries during her second WNBA season may have played a role in the selection process. The final roster for the World Cup will be determined by USA Basketball director Sue Bird, who will conduct evaluations during the training camp. Fans remain divided on the matter, with some defending the decision as a strategic move while others argue for a more inclusive approach in promotional material.
The training camp, set for Dec. 12-14 in Durham, North Carolina, will provide a crucial opportunity for players to showcase their skills and readiness for international competition. This event is part of a broader effort to build a strong team for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Australia. Team USA’s national team director, Sue Bird, is expected to play a key role in the selection process, assessing the players’ performances during the camp and making the final cut for the World Cup. The inclusion of experienced players like Brittney Griner, who was part of the U.S. Olympic team in 2024, and Kelsey Plum, who has a history of international success, suggests a balance between veteran leadership and emerging talents.
Clark, one of the most prominent figures in women’s basketball, has not been included in the promotional image, sparking discussions on social media and among basketball enthusiasts. Columnist Christine Brennan, who has written extensively about Clark’s journey, has questioned the decision, noting that the player’s absence from the Paris Olympics and her recent injury concerns may have influenced the choice. However, others argue that the selection of players for promotional material is not necessarily indicative of their inclusion in the final squad. The team’s focus will remain on preparing for the World Cup, with strategic decisions likely to be made based on performance during the training camp. As the event draws closer, the focus will shift to ensuring the U.S. team is well-prepared for the global competition in 2026.