As the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup approaches, Team USA finds itself gearing up for a formidable challenge in their opening match against China, particularly due to the presence of 6-foot-11 center Han Xu. Head coach Kara Lawson recognizes that before the team can focus on their aspirations for the tournament, they must first devise a strategy to counteract Xu's impressive height and skill.
Team USA is set to clash with China on Friday, and the absence of A’Ja Wilson, who is sidelined for injury management, adds another layer of difficulty for the American squad. Xu, who plays for the New York Liberty, boasts a remarkable wingspan of 7-foot-3, making her a daunting opponent in the paint. This height advantage could pose significant challenges for Team USA, particularly in rebounding and shot-blocking situations.
WNBA analyst Sabreena Merchant shared her insights on the upcoming matchup during her appearance on “No Offseason: The Athletic Women’s Basketball Show.” She expressed concerns about the potential lineup choices for Team USA, especially regarding how they might match up against Xu. Merchant noted, "I was like, ‘wait a second, you can’t start Phee and Stewie’ because you can’t start Stewie at 5, or can you?" This highlights the strategic dilemmas Lawson faces as she prepares her team to combat Xu’s size.
Despite the height disadvantage, Team USA has a wealth of talent at their disposal. With players like Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, Angel Reese, and Kelsey Mitchell, Lawson has the opportunity to explore various tactical options. Xu's performance in the WNBA, where she averaged 6.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks per game, showcases her capabilities, but Team USA is confident in their ability to adapt and respond to her presence on the court.
Moreover, China’s roster is not limited to Xu alone. The team also features 6-foot-7 center Li Yueru from the Dallas Wings, adding to the challenge for Team USA. Additionally, the 19-year-old Zhang Zhiyu, standing at an impressive 7-foot-4, is expected to be a top pick in the upcoming 2027 WNBA Draft. If she joins the league, she would become the tallest player in WNBA history, further complicating matters for Team USA.
In contrast, Team USA's tallest player, Aliyah Boston, measures in at 6-foot-5. While they may be at a disadvantage in terms of height, the American squad's depth and skill could prove to be decisive factors in overcoming their opponents. Lawson's experience as a coach and her ability to strategize effectively will be crucial in navigating this challenging matchup.
As the tournament draws near, fans are eager to see how Team USA will respond to the towering challenge posed by Han Xu and her teammates. With the right adjustments and a focus on leveraging their strengths, Team USA aims to make a strong statement in their opening game against China.
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