Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, Angel Reese, and JuJu Watkins are set to make their debuts at the USA Basketball senior national team camp next month. This exciting training event will take place at Duke University from December 12 to 14.
The camp will also include seasoned players like Chelsea Gray, Brittney Griner, Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, and Kahleah Copper, who have all achieved success as former Olympians or World Cup gold medalists. Additionally, Brionna Jones, a member of the 2022 World Cup team, and Aliyah Boston, the first pick in the 2023 WNBA draft, will participate.
Several other young talents like Cameron Brink, Lauren Betts, Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, Rickea Jackson, and Veronica Burton will join the camp for their first experience with the senior national team. Notably, Clark, Bueckers, Watkins, Brink, Betts, Boston, and Citron already have gold medals from junior competitions with USA Basketball. Meanwhile, other players participated in the FIBA Women’s AmeriCup.
Unfortunately, Watkins will not be active on the court while she recovers from an ACL injury. However, she will still benefit from attending and learning about the USA national team program.
This camp is crucial as it will help new managing director Sue Bird evaluate players for the 2026 FIBA World Cup team. The USA aims for its fifth consecutive gold medal at this prestigious event. The camp will be led by Kara Lawson, the Duke head coach, with additional coaching support from other experienced WNBA coaches.
As the USA women’s national basketball team continues to evolve, these training camps serve as a bridge to future success. In recent years, women’s sports have gained more visibility and support, with increased social media engagement and viewership. For instance, according to a recent survey, women’s sports viewership rose by 50% in the last two years, highlighting the growing popularity of female athletes.
These camps not only showcase current talent but also inspire the next generation. Fans eagerly await the upcoming camp, knowing it represents both a celebration of talent and a stepping stone to future achievements for USA Basketball.
For more detailed insights on women’s basketball growth, check out this NCAA report.
