Five days after her jersey was retired at UConn, Sue Bird returns to camp as the managing director of the U.S. women’s national basketball team. This USA Basketball camp, scheduled from December 12-14 at Duke University, aims to establish the atmosphere for both players and coaches as well as for Bird herself.

“I’ve definitely had some moments where it’s like, ‘Oh, I’m not a player anymore. This is totally different.’ Like, oh, I kind of have to wear all my team-issued stuff now,” Bird shared during Thursday’s media session. “But for the most part, you know, it’s been great. Everybody with USA Basketball has been super helpful.”

Bird took up her new role as the first managing director of the U.S. women’s national team in May, first hiring Kara Lawson from Duke to coach the Olympic squad through the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. Her next responsibility involves selecting a roster for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in March.

Currently, she is observing ten players, including Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and JuJu Watkins, attending their first senior 5-on-5 camp. Bird seeks to observe these newcomers’ development, even recognizing the learning happening through presence alone.

“It’s just a great opportunity to get their first feel, to get their first taste,” she expressed.

Bird clarified that the absence of big names like A’ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Breanna Stewart shouldn’t carry weight. The USA Basketball committee extended a broad array of invitations, understanding that many players have existing commitments.

This camp is part of a broader strategy for the Women’s World Cup in Berlin next September, where Team USA will aim for a fifth consecutive gold medal.

“We try to get multiple camps in throughout the year, because you want everyone to have a taste of it, allowing continuity when competition arrives,” Bird noted. “This is when the veterans truly shine, guiding the younger players through their experience and leadership.”