"Obviously, It's Not My Role": Napheesa Collier Gets Candid About Her Unfamiliar Team USA Role at FIBA World Cup

Primary Journalistic Dispatch & Direct Reporting

Team USA's 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup campaign had already started with a battle at home when A'Ja Wilson withdrew from the squad due to injury management. However, Napheesa Collier is willing to do what it takes to help the squad win its fifth straight title in the world spectacle.

Usually leading the frontcourt for the Minnesota Lynx, Collier has been tasked with playing the No. 3 role when they take on China in their opening game on Friday. This is due to the adjustments they need to make to prevent the likes of Han Xu, Li Yueru, and Zhang Zhiyu from making it to the paint.

When asked about her new role under coach Kara Lawson's system, Collier said , "It is definitely harder because, you know, I am playing on the perimeter, but I used to play coast to coast, but again, like whatever the coach asks me, I'll do to the best of my ability. But obviously, it's not my natural role."

In-Depth Developments & Factual Context

It might not be her natural position, but Phee's shooting this season would surely help her acclimatize to it, as she's currently shooting 46% from deep with the Lynx.

Being a team player is what makes a great player, and for Napheesa Collier , it is important to know when to leave the things you've been used to back home when you join the national team.

May 21, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Lynx guard Natisha Hiedeman (2), guard Courtney Williams (10) and forward Napheesa Collier (24) watch a free throw in the third quarter against the Dallas Wings at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

Industry Impact & Strategic Analysis

Dealing with a switch in roles for this World Cup, Napheesa Collier knows she has to adapt real quick to heed the nation's call.

"When you come to a national team, you have to relinquish whatever role you're in your WNBA team and do what's best for this current team," Collier said. "There's no ego here; we're trying to win, so whatever the team needs from me, whatever the coach asks, however many minutes she wants me to play, I'm going to do it."

If all things go well for Collier and Team USA, they'll be able to start on a high note as they'll have to get past last Women's World Cup runners-up, China, to open their campaign. They'll also face Italy on Sunday and Czechia on Monday to complete the group stage.

Forward Outlook & Market Perspective

Sep 26, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier (24) drives the ball against Phoenix Mercury forward DeWanna Bonner (14) during game three of the second round for the 2025 WNBA Playoffs at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

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