After experiencing a controversial omission from Team USA leading up to the 2024 Olympics, Indiana Fever standout Caitlin Clark is set to make her much-anticipated senior national team debut. On Wednesday, she was named to the 2026 USA women’s World Cup qualifying team, joining an impressive roster that includes WNBA stars such as Angel Reese and Kelsey Plum.
At just 24 years old, Clark faced challenges last season, struggling with injuries that limited her to 13 games. Despite these setbacks, she averaged a solid 16.5 points and 8.8 assists per game during her second year in the league.
Following her injury-plagued season, Clark showcased her recovery by participating in Team USA’s training camp a few months post-WNBA season. In December, she announced that she had fully healed from quad, groin, and ankle injuries, marking a significant step in her return to competitive form.
While being selected for the qualifying team is a remarkable achievement, it does not assure her a spot on Team USA for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. However, it sets a promising foundation for her Olympic aspirations. Team USA, which has already secured its place in the 2026 FIBA World Cup, views the upcoming qualifying tournament as an essential opportunity for preparation.
The qualifiers, scheduled to take place from March 11-17 in Puerto Rico, will see a robust contingent of WNBA talent, including Paige Bueckers, Dearica Hamby, Sonia Citron, and Jackie Young. These players will be instrumental in Team USA’s bid for success.
Team USA’s roster for the 2026 World Cup will ultimately be determined by general manager Sue Bird, with the tournament set for September. The team, coached by Duke women’s basketball coach Kara Lawson, aims to continue its remarkable streak, seeking a fifth consecutive World Cup title, having claimed victory in eight of the past ten tournaments.
Clark’s inclusion in the qualifying team not only marks a significant milestone in her career but also highlights the depth of talent in USA women’s basketball as they prepare to defend their dominance on the world stage.