Phoenix Mercury Stars Lead Team USA in FIBA Qualifiers

Kahleah Copper and Coach Nate Tibbetts represent the Mercury on the national stage

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two key figures from the Phoenix Mercury, guard Kahleah Copper and head coach Nate Tibbetts, will represent USA Basketball in the upcoming FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament held from March 11 to 17 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Copper's inclusion follows her impressive accomplishments, including a WNBA championship, Finals MVP award, and recent Olympic gold medal, while Tibbetts brings valuable coaching insights after guiding the Mercury to a WNBA Finals appearance.

Why it matters

The selections of Copper and Tibbetts demonstrate the impact of the Phoenix Mercury beyond their home arena, resonating at the international level. Tibbetts's coaching contributions underscore the franchise's growing role in shaping players and strategies aligned with USA Basketball's standards, while Copper's leadership and versatility on the court reflect the depth of talent within the Mercury organization.

The details

The FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament will take place in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from March 11 to 17. This event serves as a crucial step for Team USA to secure a spot in the upcoming Women's World Cup. With experienced contributors like Copper and Tibbetts, the team aims to navigate the competitive schedule and maintain the country's dominant presence in women's basketball.

  • The FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament will be held from March 11 to 17, 2026 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
  • Kahleah Copper and Nate Tibbetts were named to the Team USA roster and coaching staff, respectively, in February 2026.

The players

Kahleah Copper

A guard for the Phoenix Mercury, Copper has won a WNBA championship, Finals MVP award, and an Olympic gold medal, and is known for her versatility on defense and offensive capabilities.

Nate Tibbetts

The head coach of the Phoenix Mercury, Tibbetts brings valuable coaching insights after guiding the team to a WNBA Finals appearance and emphasizing an up-tempo style that fits well with USA Basketball's approach.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“From Phoenix to Puerto Rico! 🇺🇸 Kahleah Copper and Head Coach Nate Tibbetts will join Team USA as they compete in the FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico, March 11-17.”

— Phoenix Mercury (Twitter)

What’s next

The FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament will take place from March 11 to 17, 2026 in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where Team USA will compete to secure a spot in the upcoming Women's World Cup.

The takeaway

The selections of Kahleah Copper and Nate Tibbetts to represent Team USA in the FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifying Tournament highlight the Phoenix Mercury's growing influence on the international stage of women's basketball. Their contributions on the court and on the sidelines underscore the franchise's status as a significant hub of talent and coaching expertise, further solidifying the Mercury's impact beyond their home arena.