Training camps for major international tournaments are usually all about drills, film sessions, and laser focus. But the U.S. women's national basketball team found a moment to let loose before heading to Berlin for the FIBA Women's World Cup. A TikTok posted by Angel Reese shows the squad in their official jerseys, laughing and joking around — and it's Paige Bueckers who steals the show with a dance move that's equal parts cringe and charm.
In the clip, Bueckers, the Dallas Wings guard and former UConn star, attempts a twerk against a wall. It doesn't go as planned. Her teammates crack up, and the internet did what it does best: turned the moment into a viral sensation. The video spread quickly across X and other platforms, with fans loving the unfiltered, goofy side of a player who's usually seen as a fierce competitor.
Lighthearted moment, serious stakes
USA Basketball hasn't made a big deal out of the video, treating it as harmless team bonding. The real focus is on the court. The Americans open Group D play against China on Friday, September 4, followed by matchups with Italy and the Czech Republic. They're chasing an unprecedented fifth straight World Cup gold medal, a run that has defined their dominance in women's basketball.
This year's roster blends seasoned veterans with a new wave of talent. With A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum sidelined for health reasons, head coach Kara Lawson has leaned on younger players like Bueckers, Reese, and Caitlin Clark, while Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier provide leadership. For Bueckers, the World Cup is a chance to shine on the international stage — and her personality is already winning over fans.
The video also highlights the camaraderie that's been building within this team. In a sport where chemistry can be the difference between gold and disappointment, moments like these matter. As one fan put it, "This team is having fun, and that's scary for the rest of the world."
Bueckers has always been known for her basketball IQ and clutch play, but this viral moment shows a lighter side. It's a reminder that even at the highest level, the game is still about joy. And for a team with so much pressure to keep a dynasty alive, a little laughter can go a long way.
As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Berlin. But for now, the internet is still chuckling at Bueckers' dance — and she's taking it in stride. "I'm just here to play ball and have fun," she said in a recent interview. "If that means being the team's comic relief, so be it."
For more on the business side of women's basketball, check out Angel Reese's growing empire. And if you're looking for something to watch after the games, our September streaming guide has you covered.
