The U.S. will learn venue specifics for the 2026 World Cup only after the December draw, but its path is clear for Group D: the opener lands at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, then Lumen Field in Seattle, with games on June 12, 19, and 25. Houston isn’t in the group-stage mix. If the U.S. advances, knockout venues will hinge on results, with potential stops in the Bay Area, Arlington, or cities like Foxborough, East Rutherford, or Kansas City. Canada and Mexico could still reach Houston for knockouts depending on progress.

Houston's depth shone in a 122-113 preseason win over Atlanta as JD Davison, the G League MVP last season, erupted for 17 points on 6-of-9 shooting, including five 3-pointers, in 22 minutes, signaling a real push for backup guard minutes as Fred VanVleet recovers. Sengun dominated in 17 minutes with 19 points and 6 assists, while Tari Eason, Amen Thompson and Jabari Smith Jr. provided energy and spacing. Trae Young led Atlanta with 9 points and 8 assists; Durant sat out but is slated to return in Houston’s next test vs Utah.

Houston’s rebuilding turn looks accelerated after a top seed run and a first‑round exit. Fred VanVleet’s ACL injury opens the door for Amen Thompson to deliver a true step forward in playmaking and scoring, while Kevin Durant, Dorian Finney‑Smith and Clint Capela bring veteran balance to a young, athletic core. Reed Sheppard should see real minutes, and Ime Udoka’s system could turn Houston into a formidable, fast-defensive group in 2025‑26.