Home / Sports / Wilson Prioritizes Health Over World Cup Gold
Wilson Prioritizes Health Over World Cup Gold
16 Sep
Summary
- A'ja Wilson opted out of the 2026 FIBA World Cup due to health.
- She felt she couldn't give 100% to teammates or the USA team.
- Wilson is performing well this WNBA season, vying for MVP.

A'ja Wilson, a key player for the Las Vegas Aces, chose to sit out the 2026 FIBA World Cup, despite the team securing a gold medal. Wilson explained that her decision stemmed from not feeling physically and mentally at her peak, indicating that she could not commit 100 percent.
She emphasized that this choice was about long-term body care rather than solely preparing for the WNBA postseason. Wilson felt that not being at full strength would mean letting down her teammates and the honor of representing the USA.
Despite her absence from the World Cup, Wilson has been performing exceptionally well during the ongoing Aces season. She is a strong contender for her fifth MVP award, averaging 26.0 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game over 37 appearances.