Reese swaps her usual number for Team USA, navigating jersey limitations and a unique journey to international competition.
Chicago Sky star Angel Reese is preparing for another milestone in her rapidly rising basketball career as she gets ready to represent Team USA at the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament.
Reese joined the national team’s training camp ahead of the event, which will take place from March 11–17 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Before the tournament begins, USA Basketball revealed the team’s official uniforms and jersey numbers, and Reese will be wearing No. 9.
The number represents a change for the Chicago Sky forward, who normally wears No. 5 in the WNBA. However, the switch was largely due to circumstance rather than preference.
However, veteran guard Kelsey Plum already holds the No. 5 jersey on Team USA, meaning Reese had to select a different number.
There is also another factor at play. Team USA traditionally limits players to jersey numbers between 4 and 15 for international competitions, a long-standing practice tied to the sport’s international rules and traditions.
As a result, Reese’s options were limited when selecting her number. While the number may be different, the opportunity to represent the United States remains the focus for the two-time WNBA All-Star.
“I’ve watched USA Basketball for a long time,” Reese told reporters during training camp. “I think it’s an honor to be able to be a part of this. Every little opportunity I’m going to just maximize.”
Reese will be one of four players making their senior national team competitive debut during the tournament. Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, Dallas Wings star Paige Bueckers, and Washington Mystics forward Kiki Iriafen are also set to make their first appearances for the senior squad.
The tournament will give the young group a valuable opportunity to gain international experience. Although the United States has already secured its spot in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup after winning the 2025 AmeriCup, the qualifiers serve as an important preparation stage for future competitions.
For Reese, the event could also represent an important step toward an even bigger goal.
“Hopefully one day I can be able to play on the 2028 team,” she said, referring to the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Reese enters the international stage following a strong start to her professional career. In her first two WNBA seasons, she established herself as one of the league’s most dominant rebounders while consistently producing double-doubles.
During her rookie season, Reese set a WNBA record with a 15-game double-double streak, immediately cementing her reputation as a force in the paint. She has since continued to build on that success, averaging 14.7 points, 12.6 rebounds and 3.7 assists during the 2025 season while earning her second consecutive All-Star selection.
Now, wearing No. 9 instead of her familiar No. 5, Reese will have the chance to showcase her game on the international stage as Team USA begins its campaign in Puerto Rico.