The 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup is set to kick off with Team USA facing significant challenges, including the recent withdrawal of star player A’Ja Wilson due to injury management. Despite this setback, Napheesa Collier is ready to step up and contribute to the team's quest for a fifth consecutive championship title.
Typically a dominant presence in the frontcourt for the Minnesota Lynx, Collier finds herself in a different position as she prepares to play the No. 3 role in Team USA's opening match against China on Friday. This strategic adjustment is essential to counteract China's formidable players, including Han Xu, Li Yueru, and Zhang Zhiyu, who pose a significant threat in the paint.
In a recent interview, Collier candidly addressed her new responsibilities under head coach Kara Lawson. "It is definitely harder because, you know, I am playing on the perimeter, but I used to play coast to coast. But again, like whatever the coach asks me, I’ll do to the best of my ability. But obviously, it’s not my natural role," she stated, highlighting the challenges of adapting to a different playing style.
Although this may not be her preferred position, Collier's impressive shooting performance this season, where she boasts a 46% success rate from beyond the arc with the Lynx, could facilitate her transition. Her ability to score from long range will be a valuable asset as Team USA looks to establish its offensive rhythm.
Collier emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, "When you come to a national team, you have to relinquish whatever role you’re in your WNBA team and do what’s best for this current team. There’s no ego here; we’re trying to win, so whatever the team needs from me, whatever the coach asks, however many minutes she wants me to play, I’m going to do it." This mindset reflects the collective goal of the squad as they aim to dominate the international stage.
As Team USA prepares for their opening game against the last Women’s World Cup runners-up, China, the stakes are high. Following this match, they will also face Italy and Czechia in the group stage, making it imperative for Collier and her teammates to start strong. Success in these early contests will be crucial as they strive to maintain their legacy in women’s basketball on the world stage.
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