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USA Basketball announced on Sunday that Kelsey Plum and A’ja Wilson will not participate in the upcoming 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin, withdrawing from the roster due to health-related issues. This development leaves Team USA without two of its most seasoned competitors ahead of the international competition.
Workload and Injuries Force Key Players Out
At 32 years old, Plum is currently recovering from a lower leg injury that prematurely ended her WNBA season with the Phoenix Mercury after the team was eliminated from playoff contention. Since signing with the Mercury on August 9th, she appeared in only one game before her injury sidelined her.
Wilson, who has also been managing physical setbacks, is similarly unable to compete in the World Cup, although specific details regarding her condition have not been disclosed. Their absences mark a significant loss for Team USA, which will need to adjust its lineup accordingly as it prepares for the tournament in Berlin.
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