Dallas Wings coach cites limited practice time for Team USA chemistry issues
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 10:38 AM
Last updated Sep 8, 2026
Team USA continues play in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup following a group stage start that included a 55-52 victory over Italy. Despite securing a spot in the quarterfinals, the roster has faced questions regarding team cohesion. Dallas Wings head coach Jose Fernandez identified the limited preparation window as a primary factor in these performance struggles. Players including Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese joined the team shortly before the tournament began, leaving only two practices to integrate the squad. While the team remains undefeated in group play, Fernandez noted that competing nations have benefited from longer training periods together. The roster must now focus on building chemistry during the tournament progression to maintain their pursuit of a fifth consecutive gold medal.
- •Team USA clinched a spot in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup quarterfinals.
- •The roster had only two practice sessions before beginning tournament play.
- •Jose Fernandez highlighted a lack of chemistry as a primary weakness for the team.
- •Team USA managed a 55-52 win against Italy during the group stage.
- 10:38 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Short time to’ – Paige Bueckers’ coach breaks down Team USA’s biggest weakness at FIBA World Cup
"Team USA apparently made a massive mistake at the 2026 FIBA World Cup, and it has nothing to do with their on-court performance. Despite a close call against Italy, Team USA has managed to dominate throughout the group stages of the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
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