Sarah Strong, Sahara Williams, and Mikaylah Williams have been selected to represent the United States on the 2025 FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series roster for USA Basketball, joining veteran forward Cierra Burdick in a dynamic lineup that blends youth, talent, and experience. The announcement signals the start of another promising campaign for the United States in the fast-paced, half-court 3×3 format that has seen growing popularity and international prestige in recent years.
Sarah Strong, a standout freshman from UConn, has been on the national radar for years. Heralded as one of the most versatile forwards in her class, Strong combines size, athleticism, and a high basketball IQ to dominate on both ends of the court. Her ability to stretch the floor with her shooting while defending multiple positions makes her an ideal fit for 3×3 play, where quick switches and perimeter versatility are at a premium. Coming off a stellar freshman campaign under Geno Auriemma, Strong’s elevation to the national team spotlight speaks to her potential not just at the college level but as a future face of USA Basketball.
Oklahoma’s Sahara Williams brings a different type of energy and grit to the roster. Known for her relentless motor, explosive drives, and defensive tenacity, Williams adds a layer of toughness and hustle that is critical in the physical, up-tempo style of 3×3 competition. In Norman, she has quickly become a fan favorite due to her fearless approach and clutch play. Her ability to slash into the lane and create off the dribble complements her teammates well, providing a spark that can shift momentum in the blink of an eye.
Mikaylah Williams, representing LSU, is arguably one of the most polished offensive players of her age group. With a smooth shooting stroke, elite footwork, and a calm demeanor under pressure, Williams has been a go-to scorer for the Tigers and is now poised to do the same on the international stage. Her time at LSU under Coach Kim Mulkey has been instrumental in preparing her for high-pressure environments, and her inclusion on the 3×3 roster is a testament to her growth and consistency. Williams’ basketball IQ and ability to read defenses allow her to exploit mismatches with ease, a crucial skill in the spacing-oriented world of 3×3.
Rounding out the group is Cierra Burdick, a seasoned pro and former Tennessee Lady Vol who brings leadership, poise, and veteran savvy. Burdick has long been associated with USA Basketball, having previously competed in multiple FIBA events and contributing to gold medal-winning squads. Her experience in international play, particularly in the 3×3 format, makes her an invaluable asset to this young roster. She not only leads by example on the court but also serves as a mentor to the younger players, offering guidance and stability when games come down to the wire.
The 3×3 format, which made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, demands a unique skill set. Unlike traditional 5-on-5 basketball, 3×3 is played on a half-court with a 12-second shot clock and one basket. The game is fast, physical, and requires players to excel in multiple roles—defending, shooting, rebounding, and creating offense in tight windows. Team chemistry and quick decision-making are critical, which is why the blend of youth and experience on this roster is particularly compelling.
The USA has a storied history in international basketball, and the women’s 3×3 team is no exception. With past success in FIBA competitions and a gold medal pedigree, the expectations are always sky-high. The 2025 Women’s Series will feature tournaments across the globe, pitting the USA against some of the best talent from Europe, Asia, and beyond. For players like Strong, Sahara Williams, and Mikaylah Williams, the opportunity to wear the red, white, and blue on such a stage is a monumental step in their careers.
For Sarah Strong, the 3×3 series offers a chance to further cement her status as a rising star. Her play at UConn has already drawn comparisons to some of the greats who have passed through Storrs, and now she has the chance to showcase her skills internationally. Strong’s ability to shoot from distance, rebound in traffic, and handle the ball against pressure will be key in tight games where possessions are limited and every point matters.
Sahara Williams, meanwhile, brings an X-factor quality that can’t be taught. Her quick first step and willingness to dive for loose balls or fight through contact make her a nightmare for opposing teams. In 3×3, where there are no fouls to give and every mistake is magnified, players like Williams who thrive on chaos can often tip the scales. Her inclusion on this team not only rewards her individual effort but highlights the type of players USA Basketball values in this format.
Mikaylah Williams has long been seen as a can’t-miss prospect, and her continued growth at LSU has only reinforced that view. Known for her calm under pressure and ability to deliver in the clutch, Williams will likely take on a primary scoring role for Team USA. Her understanding of spacing, shot selection, and off-ball movement make her a natural fit for 3×3, where isolation opportunities and pick-and-pop plays are frequent. It’s easy to see her becoming a go-to option in end-of-game situations.
Cierra Burdick’s presence cannot be overstated. As someone who has worn the Team USA jersey in both 5-on-5 and 3×3 competitions, her wealth of experience will anchor this young team. Burdick excels in the little things—boxing out, communicating on defense, setting hard screens—that often go unnoticed in the box score but are essential to winning. More importantly, she understands the pace and rhythm of international 3×3 play, which can differ significantly from the collegiate game. Her ability to calm the team during high-pressure moments will be a crucial asset.
This roster also represents a passing of the torch. With Burdick as the bridge to past USA Basketball success and the trio of Strong, Sahara Williams, and Mikaylah Williams representing the future, this team is uniquely positioned to build continuity for years to come. The Women’s Series is not just about medals; it’s about building chemistry, establishing roles, and developing the next generation of leaders for USA Basketball.
USA Basketball has placed increased emphasis on the 3×3 game in recent years, recognizing its value not just as an Olympic sport but as a developmental tool for future 5-on-5 stars. The condensed nature of the games, often played in outdoor settings with boisterous crowds and quick turnarounds, forces players to adapt on the fly. For college players like Strong, Sahara Williams, and Mikaylah Williams, these experiences are invaluable as they prepare for potential professional careers and future national team duties.
As the 2025 FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series approaches, eyes will be on this talented USA squad to uphold the country’s proud basketball tradition. The stage is set for Sarah Strong to show why she’s considered one of the best forwards in the country, for Sahara Williams to prove that hustle and heart can change games, for Mikaylah Williams to cement her status as a top-tier scorer, and for Cierra Burdick to lead with the poise and confidence of a veteran who has seen it all.
Together, they form a team that embodies the best of USA Basketball: talent, grit, intelligence, and a relentless will to win. If the early chemistry and individual accolades are any indication, this squad has all the tools necessary to make a deep run and perhaps bring home another title for the red, white, and blue. More than that, they represent the exciting future of the sport—a future that looks brighter than ever with these four stars leading the charge.
