Belgium advances to FIBA World Cup quarter-finals after undefeated group stage

Belgium secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup following an 80-68 victory over Australia on September 7 in Berlin. The win moved Belgium to 3-0 in group play, building on earlier victories against Turkey and Puerto Rico. Emma Meesseman anchored the effort against Australia with 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, while Julie Vanloo and Julie Allemand also contributed double-digit scoring. Although the United States and France remain the primary gold medal favorites, Belgium’s unbeaten run establishes them as a competitive threat in the tournament bracket. The team’s success comes despite having fewer active WNBA players on its roster compared to several other tournament participants.

• 11:32 AMYahoo Sports — There’s a sneaky good team in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup