Arizona basketball fans received disappointing news on Monday as two of the nation’s premier players confirmed they will not compete in the upcoming 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup. Phoenix Mercury guard Kelsey Plum announced she is shutting down her season to focus on full recovery from a lower‑left‑leg injury, while Las Vegas Aces four‑time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson also withdrew from Team USA.
Plum’s season ends early
Plum, 32, posted an Instagram statement explaining the decision. She said she “did everything I could to be back on the court, but just ran out of time.” After consulting with family, team doctors, coaches and the Mercury front office, the consensus was to end her campaign and prioritize long‑term health.
Plum’s 2026 season had already been marred by injury. She missed six weeks earlier in the year, returning to make her Mercury debut on August 3, the day after Phoenix acquired her from the Los Angeles Sparks in a trade that also sent guard Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first‑round pick and a 2028 second‑round pick to Los Angeles.
During her 17 games (15 starts) with Phoenix, Plum averaged 21.5 points, 5.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds. In the five games she played for the Mercury, she posted 15.8 points and 2.8 assists per contest. Mercury general manager Nick U’Ren praised her competitive spirit, noting that the decision was “about doing what is best for Kelsey’s long‑term health and making sure she has the time and support she needs to return to the court at full strength.”
Wilson also steps away from the World Cup
USA Basketball confirmed that A’ja Wilson, a two‑time World Cup gold‑medalist and four‑time WNBA MVP, will not join the national team roster. The specific nature of Wilson’s injury was not disclosed, but the decision was made in coordination with the Las Vegas Aces and the U.S. program.
To fill the roster spots, Washington Mystics guard Sonia Citron and forward Kiki Iriafen were added to the squad that will travel to Berlin for the tournament beginning Friday.
Impact on Team USA
The loss of Plum and Wilson removes two seasoned veterans and prolific scorers from a roster already stacked with talent. Both players have previously helped the United States secure multiple World Cup titles, and their experience will be missed on the international stage.
Nevertheless, USA Basketball remains confident in the depth of its talent pool. The addition of Citron and Iriafen provides fresh energy, and the team will rely on its remaining veterans to guide younger players through the competition.
What’s next for the Mercury and the Aces?
Phoenix will look to the rest of its roster to carry the load for the remainder of the WNBA season. The Mercury’s front office has indicated that they will continue to monitor Plum’s recovery closely and will keep fans updated on her progress.
Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Sullivan expressed support for Wilson’s health decision, emphasizing that the team’s priority is the player’s well‑being. The Aces will continue to compete for a playoff spot while Wilson focuses on rehabilitation.
Community response
Fans across Arizona and Nevada took to social media to wish both athletes a speedy recovery. Many highlighted the importance of putting health first, especially for athletes who endure grueling schedules and physical demands.
Both Plum and Wilson have been vocal advocates for family values and community involvement throughout their careers, often speaking about the role of faith and family in their lives. Their decisions to step back this season underscore a commitment to those principles.
As the World Cup approaches, all eyes will be on the remaining members of Team USA as they aim to defend their title in Berlin. The tournament will also serve as a showcase for rising talent eager to make their mark on the international stage.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
