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Basketball
A'ja Wilson's decision to withdraw from the FIBA World Cup has drawn sharp criticism, but Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon is standing firmly behind her star, insisting health must come first.
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A'ja Wilson has pulled out of Team USA's FIBA World Cup campaign - and the backlash has been swift. The four-time MVP was not at full fitness heading into the tournament, despite not missing any regular-season games for the Las Vegas Aces beforehand. She had been listed on the injury report with back problems and previously sat out matches due to a right leg issue.
Aces head coach Becky Hammon has firmly backed her star's decision. Hammon argued that Wilson is fully entitled to put her body first, pointing out that male athletes routinely make identical choices without attracting anywhere near the same level of scrutiny. The double standard, she suggested, is glaring.
Hammon also took aim at claims from broadcaster Linda Cohn, who floated the idea that Wilson's withdrawal was driven by insecurity over Caitlin Clark's rising profile. Hammon was blunt in rejecting that theory, insisting Wilson's health is the only factor that matters.
With the Aces sitting as the No. 3 seed, Wilson's fitness is everything. The league's leading scorer is expected to be central to their postseason push when Las Vegas return to action on 17 September against the Storm. Getting her right for that run, rather than risking further damage on the international stage, looks like shrewd business.
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Copyright 2026 VIASPORT
Eva Hernández, Editor-in-Chief
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