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Mike James joins USA Basketball for World Cup qualifying games

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 2, 2026, 10:15 PM

Last updated Jul 2, 2026

Mike James joins USA Basketball for World Cup qualifying games

Summary

Mike James will make his USA Basketball debut this weekend in World Cup qualifying matches against the Dominican Republic and Mexico. This marks an important milestone for James, who has played professionally overseas for over a decade but has had limited opportunities with the national team. The qualifying games are significant as they contribute to securing a spot in the 2027 FIBA World Cup. With the U.S. celebrating its 250th anniversary, the timing is particularly noteworthy. USA Basketball has already clinched a place in the second qualifying round, making these games pivotal for maintaining their standings in the Americas region.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•James has 48 NBA games and extensive international play experience.
•USA plays the Dominican Republic on July 7 and Mexico on July 10.
•The U.S. aims for one of seven World Cup berths from the Americas region.
•Stephen Silas is the head coach for this qualifying window.

Latest Updates

10:15 PMYahoo Sports — Mike James set to make his long-awaited USA Basketball debut in World Cup qualifying

What they're saying

"
Mike James has waited a long time to wear “USA” across his chest. The opportunity will finally come this weekend, when James — who has played internationally as a pro for more than a decade and has 48 games of NBA experience with three teams — will join the U.S. for a pair of World Cup qualifying games. “Playing these games over the Fourth of July and all that, I really didn’t think about it until now," James said.
— Yahoo Sportsby TIM REYNOLDS

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