Kara Lawson Named Head Coach of Team USA for FIBA AmeriCup
Kara Lawson, head coach of Duke women’s basketball, has been named the leader of Team USA at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AmeriCup. The global tournament will take place in Chile, where the U.S. team will compete for its fifth AmeriCup gold medal.
Lawson will guide a team of elite athletes with one goal — to dominate. Backed by Old Dominion’s DeLisha Milton-Jones and Oklahoma’s Jennie Baranczyk, Lawson plans to bring her trademark intensity and focus to the court.
“I always look forward to serving USA Basketball in any capacity that I am asked,” Lawson said. “That won’t change this summer.”
From Duke Triumph to Global Ambitions
Lawson is coming off a major win with Duke. She led the Blue Devils to their first ACC Tournament title in years and their first Elite Eight appearance in over a decade. Her leadership was both fierce and thoughtful.
After five seasons with Duke, she’s become one of the most respected names in women’s college basketball. Now, she’s taking her experience to the international stage, continuing to break barriers.
A Champion on and off the Court
Lawson’s resume is packed with success. As a coach with Team USA, she holds a 75-5 record. She helped coach the 3×3 gold medal team in Tokyo (2021) and the 5×5 gold medal team in Paris (2023). Before that, she earned gold as a player at the 2008 Olympics.
Her love for the game shows through her words.
“Basketball is a gift,” she said. “It’s given me so much — as a player, a coach, and beyond.”
Team USA Eyes Gold in Chile
Team USA is looking to bounce back after winning silver in 2023. They’re grouped with Chile, Colombia, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. The competition is tight, but expectations are sky-high.
The last AmeriCup gold came in 2021, with stars like Rhyne Howard, Aliyah Boston, and Elissa Cunane. Lawson aims to add a new chapter to that legacy.
Her mission? Build a team that represents excellence, grit, and unity.
A Power Move for Women’s Basketball
Lawson’s appointment is more than just a title — it’s a statement. Women’s basketball is rising, and leaders like Lawson are pushing it to the next level.
She stands as a role model for young girls, Black women, and aspiring coaches. Her presence on the world stage matters.
With Lawson at the helm, Team USA isn’t just playing for a medal. They’re playing for legacy, pride, and the future of the game.
