The USA Women’s National Team training camp in Durham, North Carolina, delivered a clear message: the generational transition is officially underway. Over one week at Duke University, USA Basketball brought together 17 players blending established WNBA experience with elite emerging talent.
Among the most notable names were Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers, Veronica Burton, and JuJu Watkins, highlighting a strong youth-driven direction for the senior national team. The camp marked a strategic step toward shaping the future of USA Basketball at the highest level.
The sessions gave these players their first true opportunity to compete together at the senior level. Under general manager Sue Bird and head coach Kara Lawson, the focus centered on building depth, identity, and cohesion. The staff aimed to expose players to the international style of play ahead of qualifying tournaments.
This process lays the foundation for the FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026.
Learning, chemistry, and a shared mission
According to Athlon Sports, fans witnessed Clark and Reese interacting frequently during drills and scrimmages.
Those moments quickly went viral, drawing significant attention across social media platforms. Following the camp, USA Basketball shared comments from Angel Reese that captured the tone and collective spirit. Her message emphasized gratitude, growth, and competitive alignment.
“I’m just very grateful to be here with the best… And not going to take this moment for granted.
I’m very thankful because a lot of people don’t get this moment.
So I try to learn so many things from other people, from communication, even just ball-handling,” Reese said.
The best basketball gym to be in. Welcome to the 🇺🇸 #USABWNT, @Reese10Angel! pic.twitter.com/6aTBy8fvhc
— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) December 15, 2025
The Chicago Sky forward stressed continuous learning and absorbing details from different teammates. She highlighted how varied skill sets accelerate personal and team development.
Reese also pointed to specific tactical lessons she observed during camp. “Being able to watch Aaliyah [Boston] post up and post deep, and take those things and implement them into yourself. I think that shows the growth of the game and how we can compete in the [WNBA], then come back here to the USA and be together with one goal, which is the championship and winning the gold medal.“
Her statement reflects the dual challenge players face today. They must excel professionally while aligning under a unified national objective. The training camp represents the first step toward qualification for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup. In the coming months, the roster will narrow to form the official international squad.
If Reese and Clark make the final cut, it would mark their first official appearances with the senior national team.
Beyond individual names, the message is unmistakable.
USA Basketball is building its future through youth, early chemistry, and a shared competitive identity.
