2026 hasn't been the best year for Napheesa Collier, as she is still completing her recovery. As a result, fans were stunned after learning that she would be joining Team USA soon.

An X update from ESPN's Alexa Philippou on March 31 revealed that Collier was selected to participate in Team USA's "PHX training camp" scheduled from 1st to 3rd April. While 'Phee's' return to the national side is expected to be appreciated by fans, the comments section told a different story.

Initially, Philippou shared the list of all 15 players who would be part of the camp, including noted stars like A'ja Wilson, Paige Bueckers, and Collier. However, she reposted her update shortly, revealing, "Napheesa Collier will not participate in on-court activities as she recovers from injury," despite being on the team roster. This update also triggered several reactions from fans regarding Collier's condition.

Well, Alexa's latter update isn't much of a surprise, considering Collier required surgery on both ankles earlier this year after dealing with issues late in last season’s WNBA playoffs.

She was restricted from competing for an estimated four to six months, which also caused her to miss the 2026 season of Unrivaled.

Most recently, the Lynx star was spotted at her annual Hopkins basketball camp using a leg scooter and a cast on her left leg, as highlighted in an X post by Andrew Dukowitz.

“I did check in with the Lynx, and they had no comment at this time. Until I hear more, I’m staying positive.” He added.

As for other members in Team USA's camp, several players who were part of the World Cup qualifying tournament earlier this month in Puerto Rico will not be appearing, including Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Veterans like A'ja Wilson and Collier take up their spot.

However, fans were taken aback by Collier's inclusion in the squad, considering that she's still in her recovery phase.

Fans Express Concern Over Napheesa Collier’s Inclusion in Team USA Roster

Both of Alexa's X updates garnered several comments from fans related to Collier's incorporation into the team. Most of them were surprised by the initial post as they rated 'Phee' to be unfit.

One of the fans mentioned, "Can Collier and Juju [Watkins] even play with their injuries?" while another one stated, "Isn't Phee in a foot cast?"

Two more fans echoed the narrative, stating, "Napheesa Collier [is] in foot cast this week and Juju ain’t playing basketball either," and "Napheesa in a wheel chair."

However, one of the fans posed a legitimate question after Alexa's second update revealed that Collier wouldn't be participating in the "PHX training camp" despite being on the roster.

He asked, "What’s the point of them being there then? Gonna make the team off osmosis?"

While Team USA camp has made its decision, it will be interesting to see how soon "Phee" will get ready to don the national jersey once again.

When do you think she will return? Let us know in the comments.

Follow She Got Game for more

Written by

Joy Bassy

Edited by

Souvik Roy