U.S. Women’s Basketball Team for FIBA World Cup Qualifier
In preparation for the upcoming FIBA World Cup qualifier scheduled for next week in Puerto Rico, Monique Billings and Rae Burrell have been named to the U.S. women’s basketball team. Their inclusion comes as a result of Aliyah Boston and Sonia Citron stepping down from the competition due to injuries.
Injury Updates
Boston has been sidelined with a right lower extremity injury that also kept her from participating in the Unrivaled playoffs, while Citron faced a similar issue, causing her to miss the latter part of the Unrivaled regular season.
Opportunities for Billings and Burrell
This marks a significant opportunity for Billings, who previously contributed to the victorious U.S. under-23 national team at the 2017 Four Nations Tournament. Meanwhile, Burrell is set to make her first appearance representing the United States in a competitive capacity.
Team Lineup
They will join an impressive lineup featuring rising stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers, alongside seasoned athletes such as Kahleah Copper, Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young, all of whom clinched gold at the 2024 Olympics. Additionally, Dearica Hamby and Rhyne Howard, who brought home a bronze medal in 3×3 basketball at the recent Paris Games, will also contribute to the team’s efforts. The group is rounded out by Washington Mystics rookie Kiki Iriafen.
Coaching Staff
The team will be guided by U.S. Olympic coach Kara Lawson, who will oversee their play in San Juan before shifting her focus back to Duke University and preparations for the NCAA Tournament. Joining Lawson are assistant coaches Natalie Nakase, Nate Tibbets, and Stephanie White, who gained experience as court coaches during a training camp held in December.
Tournament Outlook
During the tournament, the U.S. squad will confront several teams, including Senegal, Puerto Rico, Italy, New Zealand, and Spain. It’s worth noting that the Americans have already secured their spot at the World Cup in Berlin, set for September 4-13, as they aim for an unprecedented fifth consecutive championship.
