PHOENIX — Two members of the Phoenix Mercury are expected to represent USA Basketball in the FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifying tournament next month.
Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts talks with guard Kahleah Copper (2) during the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Aces at PHX Arena on June 29, 2025. © Michael Chow/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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Mercury guard Kahleah Copper will join the roster, with Phoenix head coach Nate Tibbetts serving as an assistant coach for the tournament. The selections place them both among the best chosen to represent and coach the national team on the international stage.
The United States has historically dominated global competition, but qualifying often features condensed schedules and matchups that test the roster’s depth and chemistry.
September 21, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States; Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2) dribbles the ball against the Minnesota Lynx in the second half during game one of the second round of the 2025 WNBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
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Copper’s selection reflects its recent production and growing leadership. A WNBA champion, Finals MVP, and most recently an Olympic gold medalist, she has developed into a dynamic two-way player capable of defending multiple positions.
Tibbetts, who just advanced to the WNBA Finals with her group, provides more than just additional representation for the desert. During his first two seasons with the Mercury, he emphasized pace, spacing and defense. Many of these principles align with USA Basketball’s style of play, and he brings his coaching experience to the highest professional level of women’s basketball.
August 19, 2025; San Francisco, California, United States; Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts gives a high five to Phoenix Mercury forward Kahleah Copper (2) after calling a timeout against the Golden State Valkyries in the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
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The franchise’s continued relevance on the world stage underscores Phoenix’s position as one of the hottest cities in women’s basketball.
With former champions such as Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum and Jackie Young on the roster – as well as emerging stars such as Paige Bueckers, Sonia Citron, Caitlin Clark, Kiki Iriafen and Angel Reese – the depth of talent is evident. Being selected during this competition shows that Copper’s work with the Mercury resonates beyond the Valley and on the international stage.
The FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifying tournament will take place March 11-17 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
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