STWF Sports | COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. | March 31, 2026 — USA Basketball has announced a 15-player roster for its upcoming women’s national team training camp, with Paige Bueckers of the Dallas Wings among the notable selections set to participate in Phoenix from April 1–3.
The camp represents a critical evaluation period as USA Basketball continues preparations for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup, scheduled for September in Berlin. It also underscores Bueckers’ continued emergence on the international stage, as the young guard builds on a strong start to her professional career.
Bueckers returns to the national team pool after contributing to a dominant showing earlier this month in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where the United States went 5-0 in the World Cup Qualifying Tournament. Her inclusion signals growing trust from the national team staff as she competes alongside some of the sport’s most accomplished players.
The roster features a blend of Olympic champions, established WNBA stars, and rising talent. Headlining the group are multi-time Olympic gold medalist A’ja Wilson and Napheesa Collier, along with Sabrina Ionescu, who captured gold at the 2024 Olympic Games. Veteran presence is further bolstered by Stefanie Dolson, a gold medalist in 3×3 competition at the Tokyo Olympics.
Several players on the roster bring prior success in international competitions, including World Cup championships and FIBA AmeriCup experience. The continuity within the group is evident, with multiple athletes returning from recent national team camps and tournaments.
For Bueckers, the opportunity to train in this environment provides valuable experience as she continues to adapt to the professional level while maintaining a role within the national team pipeline. Known for her poise, scoring ability, and playmaking vision, she has quickly established herself as one of the most promising young guards in the game.
The training camp will be led by head coach Kara Lawson, who oversees the 2025–28 national team cycle. Lawson will be supported by a group of accomplished court coaches, including Niele Ivey, Natalie Nakase, Shea Ralph, Nate Tibbetts, and Stephanie White. The coaching staff brings a wide range of experience across the collegiate and professional levels, further enhancing the developmental environment.
The April camp also introduces new faces to the senior team setting, including Mikayla Blakes and Kayla Thornton, while maintaining a core group of players with extensive international résumés. Many participants have earned gold medals at various levels of international play, highlighting the depth of talent within the program.
Oversight of the selection process remains with Sue Bird, who will evaluate players throughout the year ahead of final roster decisions for the World Cup. The United States will enter the tournament aiming to secure its fifth consecutive gold medal, continuing a longstanding tradition of dominance in international women’s basketball.
For the Dallas Wings, Bueckers’ selection is another positive sign as the franchise continues to build around its young cornerstone. Her involvement with USA Basketball not only enhances her development but also elevates the organization’s profile heading into the 2026 WNBA season.
As training camp begins in Phoenix, the focus will be on competition, chemistry, and preparation. For Bueckers and her fellow participants, it represents both an opportunity and a challenge—one that could ultimately shape the roster that represents the United States on the global stage later this year.
