Is France Team USA’s Biggest World Cup Threat?

French talent is making a major impact in the WNBA — and now some of those same players could stand in Team USA’s way at the FIBA World Cup. Sabreena and Annie are joined by Eden Laase to break down the growing pipeline of French players to the WNBA, what’s made the league an increasingly attractive destination, and whether that experience could help France pull off a World Cup upset.Before Eden joins, Sabreena and Annie discuss the latest developments surrounding Kate Koval’s departure from LSU following the program’s recruitment of a Russian player, which left Koval without a new landing spot as the NCAA transfer window closed before she could make her move. They also break down the passport issue that has kept Li Yueru from playing for Team China, before turning to Satou Sabally being ruled out for the remainder of the season and what that could mean for her future and the New York Liberty.Finally, the trio look beyond Team USA and France to preview the rest of the FIBA World Cup field, highlighting the teams and players they’ll be watching closely throughout the tournament.REFERENCES: Ukrainian center Kate Koval details leaving LSU after recruitment of Russian player by Annie Costabile and Chantel JenningsWings center Li Yueru can’t play with China in World Cup due to lost passport by Sabreena MerchantThe WNBA has experienced a French influence. It could also cause chaos in the World Cup by Eden LaaseWhat to know about Team USA and the World Cup women's basketball field as play begins by Sabreena Merchant__No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast NetworkEmail us: NoOffseason@theathletic.comSign up for the No Offseason newsletter!YT: @No-Offseason IG: @tanooffseasonTikTok: @no_offseason Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.