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A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum Miss 2026 World Cup

9/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Basketball announced A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum will miss the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup.
A'ja Wilson’s back issues and Kelsey Plum’s lower-leg injury caused their absence.
Washington Mystics guard Sonia Citron and forward Kiki Iriafen were added as replacements.
Team USA opens the World Cup on Sept. 4 in Berlin against China, still favorite for a fifth title.

History

Historical Context

In Atlanta 1996 the U.S. women’s basketball team captured its third Olympic gold, defeating Brazil and later earning Hall-of-Fame induction on August 15 2026. The squad’s depth, proven by injury replacements such as Sonia Citron, set a precedent that resurfaces in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup, where stars A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum sit out.

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Story summary

U.S. Basketball announced A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum will miss the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup.
A'ja Wilson’s back issues and Kelsey Plum’s lower-leg injury caused their absence.
Washington Mystics guard Sonia Citron and forward Kiki Iriafen were added as replacements.
Team USA opens the World Cup on Sept. 4 in Berlin against China, still favorite for a fifth title.

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