The USA Basketball women's junior national team committee has announced a 12-member squad for the upcoming FIBA Women's AmeriCup in Santiago, Chile. This team features some of the most promising college players, including potential 2026 WNBA draft lottery picks Flau'jae Johnson of LSU and Olivia Miles of TCU.

Key Players to Watch

• Flau'jae Johnson: A senior guard from LSU, Johnson is one of five players making their USA Basketball competitive debut. Known for her agility and scoring ability, Johnson is expected to be a cornerstone for the team.
• Olivia Miles: Also a senior guard, Miles transferred from Notre Dame to TCU after the past season. She brings a wealth of experience, having previously won gold medals with USA Basketball.

Other Notable Players

• Raegan Beers: Senior center from Oklahoma, known for her dominance in the paint.
• Audi Crooks: Junior center from Iowa State, a rising star with impressive defensive skills.
• Gianna Kneepkens: Senior guard from UCLA, who transferred from Utah, adding depth to the backcourt.
• Hannah Stuelke: Senior forward from Iowa, known for her versatility and rebounding.

Coaching Staff

Kara Lawson, a former Olympic gold medalist and current Duke head coach, will lead the team. With extensive USA Basketball coaching experience, Lawson is well-equipped to guide this talented squad.

Tournament Schedule

The competition runs from June 28 to July 6, with the U.S. team opening Group B play against Chile, followed by matches against Colombia, Puerto Rico, and Mexico.

Impact on WNBA Draft

Both Johnson and Miles were eligible for the 2025 WNBA draft but chose to return to college for the 2025-2026 season. Their performance in the AmeriCup could significantly impact their draft stock.

Conclusion

This tournament is a crucial platform for these young athletes to showcase their skills on an international stage. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, the USA Basketball team is poised for a strong performance in the FIBA Women's AmeriCup 2025.