‘AA”ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum will not be able to compete in the tournament due to health issues and are forcing Team USA to alter its plans when the countdown is already underway.’
The United States announced Monday that both players had withdrawn from the tournament. They will be replaced by their Washington Mystics teammates Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron.
Two absences reshape Team USA’s World Cup outlook
The absence of A”ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum has shaken the start of the Women’s Basketball World Cup, with Wilson’s withdrawal particularly significant for the United States.
The Las Vegas Aces star and four-time WNBA MVP arrived as one of Team USA’s leaders. Wilson was also selected as the standout player of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the 2022 World Cup, making her absence a major blow as the world’s best national teams prepare to compete.
Wilson had carried a significant workload during the first part of the season and needed time to rest.
“In Plum’s case, she has had a calf injury for a long time, and she has played a large part of the WNBA season with it without recovering 100%.
Plum’s long-term calf injury adds another challenge for the national team. She played much of the WNBA season while still short of full recovery.
Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron receive unexpected opportunity
Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron, teammates in Washington, will fill the roster spots left by Wilson and Plum.
Both players had previously participated in national team camps, but their roles have now changed significantly. They will have the opportunity to join the squad tasked with defending the United States’ historic dominance in the Women’s Basketball World Cup.
Team USA faces World Cup without two veteran stars
The original Team USA roster was announced in early August and included Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, Paige Bueckers, Angel Reese and Wilson. Plum was also selected among the 12 players.
Now, just days before the tournament begins, the United States must prepare for the World Cup without two of its most experienced stars. The goal remains unchanged: win the trophy again. However, the path to a fifth consecutive title has become more difficult.
Source: www.marca.com
