USC's Kennedy Smith named to USA Basketball Women’s AmeriCup opening roster

Being named to select teams or a Team USA squad is a great honor and something that all USC student-athletes strive for. After coming off an impressive freshman year with the Trojans, Kennedy Smith will have a busy summer preparing for a chance to make the final cut on this year's Team USA.

The FIBA Women’s AmeriCup is a competition that takes place every two years. Released on Monday, Smith was named to the initial roster of 21 who will compete for a chance to represent Team USA on the international stage.

This side will be led by coach Kara Lawson from Duke and will compete in Group B starting on June 28 against Chile. Other teams in the same group include Mexico, Colombia, and Puerto Rico. The winner receives an automatic berth to next year's FIBA World Cup that will be hosted by the city of Berlin in Germany.  

In 2023, Brazil won the AmeriCup trophy. This year, Team USA will have revenge on its mind. The list of those competing with Smith for a chance to bring home the win includes Hannah Hidalgo, Flau’jae Johnson, and Olivia Miles.

There is a lot of star power that Team USA will be sending to Santiago, Chile, for the 2025 AmeriCup. Considering the skill set and prior international experience of Smith, although there are not any certainties, it would be something of a complete surprise to not see the Trojan playing a prominent role in South America later this month.

Prior international experience for USC guard

Smith played in and helped the United States squad earn gold during the 2024 FIBA U18 AmeriCup. The guard was also a starter for Team USA during the 2024 Nike Hoop Summit showcase. Trojan fans know what the player who is entering her sophomore season at USC can bring to the table.

Assuming the trials go well for her in Colorado Springs, Smith will then be able to look forward to the opportunity to help secure Team USA's fifth gold medal in the AmeriCup competition.