What happened: The tournament runs Sept. 4-13 in Berlin, with three group games packed into four days. The top three teams in each group advance, while group winners move directly to the quarterfinals.
Why it matters: Six members of the Paris Olympic bronze-medal squad return, providing continuity with only three preparation days together. The program has won six medals in 16 previous World Cup appearances, including the 2006 title.
By the numbers: Smith's five qualifier appearances coincided with a 5-0 run. The five wins came by a combined 58 points, an average margin of 11.6.
What to watch: Group play begins Sept. 4 and ends Sept. 7 before the knockout rounds begin.