BERLIN, GER. — Phoenix Mercury’s Kahleah Copper and Team USA are two wins away from another FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup championship after their 108-56 win over Hungary Thursday.
Make it 11 straight #FIBAWWC semifinal appearances for the 🇺🇸 #USABWNT! pic.twitter.com/dgC0DRerFl
— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) September 10, 2026
The United States overwhelmed its opponents, keeping them below 20 points every quarter and advancing to the semifinals for the 11th consecutive World Cup. The Americans scored a World Cup quarterfinal-record 59 points in the first half, forced 27 turnovers and shot 59% from the field.
Copper finished with 10 points, six rebounds and two assists as the U.S. turned the game into a rout early on. She also knocked down two 3-pointers and went 3-for-3 from the field.
Aug 1, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2) moves the ball against New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu (20) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The outing was the guard’s highest scoring game in the tournament, averaging 6.5 points and 4.8 rebounds in all four games so far. She had five points and five rebounds against China, six points and four rebounds against Italy, and five points and five rebounds against Czechia.
While that type of production is different from the role she has with Phoenix, it showcases the depth Team USA has on its roster. The Americans don’t need to rely on one player to carry the offense, with stars such as Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier and Paige Bueckers contributing in different ways.
That allows Copper to make an impact in other areas. Her value comes from defense, rebounding, athleticism and the ability to attack when opportunities arise.
Aug 9, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard-forward Kahleah Copper (2) takes a shot over Washington Mystics forward Kiki Iriafen (44) during the second half at CareFirst Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
She’s also no stranger to winning on the international stage. Copper helped the U.S. win the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Olympic gold medal, giving her experience in high-pressure international games.
Copper’s continued success with Team USA is another reason to pay attention to the World Cup back at home. Her role may be different with the national team, but the experience she gains competing alongside some of the best players in the world can carry over when she returns to the Mercury.
With Team USA still chasing another World Cup title, Copper is two wins away from adding another international championship to her résumé.
Jul 22, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2) reacts after a 3-point basket during the second half against the Los Angeles Sparks at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Team USA will face the winner of Spain-Australia in Saturday’s semifinal.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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