The Pistons have ambitions of one day representing Team USA, but nobody would've expected James Wiseman to reach that stage before anyone on the current Detroit roster. Wiseman has had a very hard time finding a home in the NBA since leaving the Pistons in 2024, but he has landed on the World Cup Qualifying team for USA Basketball. It's a nice fresh start for a guy who's battled injuries and is trying to fight his way back into the league.
The February 2026 🇺🇸 Men's World Cup Qualifying Team 🫡 pic.twitter.com/KG5LfcRJ67
— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) February 17, 2026
James Wiseman will be competing for Team USA Basketball
The World Cup Qualifying team is a real motley crew of former NBA players and collegiate stars. It typically consists of guys who are no longer in the league because the NBA doesn't take a break for World Cup qualification. But it could still be a chance for Wiseman to work his way back onto an NBA practice squad.
Any mention of Wiseman could invoke memories of a dark time in franchise history for Pistons fans. After Detroit traded away Saddiq Bey to acquire Wiseman in 2023, the Pistons had consecutive all-time terrible seasons. It was a far cry from the dominant record they now carry just two seasons later. And Wiseman's acquisition was doubly painful for the opportunities it took away from budding centers Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart.
In one and a half seasons with the Pistons, Wiseman averaged about 9 points and 6 rebounds per game. He improved significantly during that time, especially on the defensive end, but it was quickly clear that he wouldn't be part of the Pistons' long-term future. He always seemed to lack the physicality that would later become the Pistons' signature trait as they returned to playoff contention.
In the 2024 offseason, Wiseman signed with the Pacers but unfortunately suffered a torn ACL just 5 minutes into his Indiana tenure. It was a brutal twist of fate for the former #2 overall draft pick. He would later be traded and waived while recovering from the injuries. He found his way back to the Pacers this season amidst the team's injuries but played just 4 games.
Wiseman's time in Detroit wasn't the best, but his experiences since leaving have been significantly worse. He's dealt with injuries throughout his career, and it's now left him without an NBA contract. However, his time on Team USA could still give him a spotlight to catch the eye of some front offices.
James Wiseman is unlikely to ever reach the heights that teams like the Pistons or Warriors (who drafted him) initially hoped for, but maybe there is still a spot in the league for him. If he can have a good showing in World Cup Qualifying games and maintain the right attitude, don't be surprised to see him sign a 10-day contract for another NBA team soon.