ANTWERP (Belgium) - Setting the Olympic standard for decades, reigning champions USA will be out to make a statement at the FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament, even if their ticket is guaranteed. 

The Roster

Certain to defend their crown from Tokyo 2020 at this year's Games in their capacity as FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 winners, the depth of choice on the roster remains extraordinary. For this particular event, there could be sensational returns to FIBA tournament action for both Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner who last appeared in the Japanese capital, as USA Basketball announced a formidable 18-player roster today for their training camp.

Kelsey Plum impressed at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022

Elsewhere, Kelsey Plum who played so well in Sydney to grab gold at those Worlds will be ready to shine again, with Sabrina Ionescu alongside her. The frontcourt may contain two superstar names in Breanna Stewart and (or) A'Ja Wilson.

Brittney Griner looks to be one of the few players guaranteed a spot for the 2024 Games

The Question

How many players in this squad will be part of the final lineup at the Games and of those who are playing, who will light it up for USA? All eyes will be on Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner, but will it be someone else that finds the hot hand?

The Hope

The hope can be considered in more unusual circumstances with USA. That's because they main degree of hope will be flowing from those ballers on the roster in Antwerp who are fighting for their place for the Olympics and will be desperate to put on a show and boost their chances of sealing a spot. 

All conquering and dominant for so long, USA will feel they have very little to fear 

The Fear

Fear - what fear? They're already guaranteed their spot and as the all-conquering nation that sets the standards in every global competition, there is nothing to worry about USA in Antwerp. They will no doubt relish balling in front of these record-breaking Belgian crowds. If Belgium do push them or even take a surprise victory, then that will only sharpen USA's focus and edge ahead of the Games themselves. 

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