From Newsweek · Matthew Couden · · 1m 20s
A'ja Wilson explains skipping FIBA World Cup for Team USA
The WNBA MVP chose rest over representing her country, prioritizing long-term health as the playoffs approach.
In brief
The WNBA MVP chose rest over representing her country, prioritizing long-term health as the playoffs approach. Even elite athletes must sometimes choose recovery over competition to protect their long-term health and performance. Originally reported by Newsweek.
Wilson pulled out of World Cup
A'ja Wilson was originally selected for Team USA's FIBA World Cup roster but withdrew. She and Kelsey Plum were replaced by Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron.
Nagging injuries forced the decision
Wilson told reporters she needed to take care of her body and recover from injuries sustained during the season. It wasn't about playoff prep, it was about not feeling well.
“I don't feel well, and if I can't give myself 100%, I feel like I rob not only my teammates but wearing that USA uniform”
Coach Hammon backed her call
Becky Hammon said the USA decision weighed heavily on Wilson, who wanted to play. But Hammon trusts Wilson knows her body better than anyone.
“I know the USA decision weighed heavily on her. I know she wanted to be over there”
Wilson leads the league in scoring
The four-time MVP is averaging 26 points and two blocks per game this season. She's also third in rebounding at 9.4 per game.
Team USA won gold without her
The United States defeated France 97-79 in the World Cup Final. The team relied on veterans Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, plus Angel Reese.
Aces fighting for playoff position
Las Vegas is 27-13 and third in the standings with four games left. The Atlanta Dream and Indiana Fever are just one game behind them.
The one thing
Even elite athletes must sometimes choose recovery over competition to protect their long-term health and performance.
