Sami Whitcomb will withdraw from the upcoming FIBA Women’s World Cup in Berlin to manage prevailing knee soreness.
Whitcomb has experienced inflammation in the knee throughout the year and missed an early portion of the 2026 WNBA Season as a precaution.
Despite Whitcomb doing everything possible to be ready for Berlin, ultimately a decision had to be made to prioritise health & wellbeing.
“While Sami is understandably disappointed not to be able to represent the Opals at the World Cup, her long-term health has to come first,” says Jason Smith, EGM of High Performance
“Our thoughts are with Sami. We know how much representing the Opals means to her, and we recognise the enormous emotional and physical toll this situation has taken,”
“Sami gives so much to this team, and while we are deeply disappointed that she will not be with us at the World Cup, our priority is her wellbeing, health, and long-term future. We will continue to support her in every way we can.”
The Opals coaching staff will determine a replacement for Whitcomb to join the team in Berlin over the weekend.
