Kara Lawson draws WNBA criticism over comments regarding A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 4:42 AM
Last updated Sep 2, 2026

Team USA head coach Kara Lawson is facing backlash for comments regarding the absence of A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum from the upcoming FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin. Both players were ruled out due to injuries, with Wilson suffering from back issues and Plum sidelined by a calf and lower-leg injury. Lawson stated that while the players were great for the team, the squad has moved on and must focus on the current roster. The remarks sparked sharp reactions from observers on social media regarding her tone toward the veteran stars. The Team USA roster, which features younger players including Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers, has arrived in Berlin to begin tournament preparations. The team faces China in its opening game on Friday, September 4.
- •A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum are excluded from the Team USA FIBA World Cup roster due to injuries.
- •Kara Lawson stated the team has moved on to focus on the current group of players.
- •Social media users expressed dissatisfaction with the tone of Lawson’s recent comments.
- •Team USA opens tournament play against China on September 4.
- •The roster features younger players including Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers.
- 4:42 AMYahoo Sports — ‘She Didn’t Have To Say It Like That’ – WNBA World Rips Team USA HC Kara Lawson’s Bold Admission About A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum
"Team USA HC Kara Lawson has sparked controversy with her bold statement that A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum will not play in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin. Her comment didn’t sit well with the WNBA world, attracting plenty of scathing comments.
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