Sixteen nations open 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup in Berlin

The 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup begins today in Berlin, Germany, with 16 national teams competing in the group stage. The tournament runs through September 13, when the final championship game is scheduled to take place. Teams are divided into four groups, with the top 12 squads advancing to a single-elimination bracket following the initial round. The United States enters the competition in Group D alongside the Czech Republic, Italy, and China, seeking a fifth consecutive gold medal. Other participating nations include Japan, Spain, Germany, Mali, Hungary, South Korea, Nigeria, France, Belgium, Australia, Puerto Rico, and Turkiye. France emerges as a primary contender, fielding a roster that includes eight WNBA players.

• 10:22 AMYahoo Sports — 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup teams & countries for Group Stage