FIBA Women's World Cup 2026 Qualifiers Begin

The FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 qualifiers began on Wednesday, March 11, drawing attention to powerhouse teams like the United States and Nigeria as they fine-tune rosters and strategies ahead of the main tournament in Berlin this September.

In San Juan, Puerto Rico, Team USA launched its campaign in a round-robin group featuring matchups against Puerto Rico, Senegal, Italy, New Zealand and Spain. The Americans, who enter as reigning World Cup champions after defeating China in 2022 and securing Olympic gold against France last summer, aim to secure one of the qualifying spots through consistent performances. USA Basketball selected a 12-player roster blending Olympic veterans and rising stars, including guards Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever, Kelsey Plum and Chelsea Gray, forwards Angel Reese and Rhyne Howard, and centers Kahleah Copper, Jackie Young and Dearica Hamby. Clark, the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year, along with UConn standout Paige Bueckers and Chicago Sky forward Reese, are making their senior national team debuts, adding fresh energy to the squad.

The roster faced early adjustments due to injuries. Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier, a four-time...