2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup Tips Off in Berlin
The 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup gets underway in Berlin, featuring 51 players from 14 WNBA teams as Team USA chases a gold medal.
Hosted in Berlin, the 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup brings global excitement with the participation of 51 WNBA players and an expanded 16-team format.
Tournament Details in Berlin
While the WNBA season takes a break, nearly a quarter of the league's rostered players are competing for a gold medal at the 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in Berlin.
Running from Friday through Sunday, September 13, the tournament features 51 WNBA players representing 14 of the league's 15 teams and 16 competing nations.
Expanding Global Interest
In a year when the WNBA expanded to 15 teams, the FIBA Women's World Cup has also increased its tournament field from 12 teams to 16, highlighting the worldwide growth of women's basketball.
Group and Knockout Stage
The 16 participating teams have been drawn into four-team groups, with the group stage leading into a single-elimination phase culminating in the quarterfinals on September 10, the semifinals on September 12, and the medal games on September 13.
Team USA's Championship Goal
The United States team takes the stage as the tournament favorite, aiming for its fifth consecutive World Cup gold medal.
Although missing key names like A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum due to health issues, the U.S. roster features experienced champions and rising stars such as Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, Caitlin Clark, and Aliyah Boston.
France's Strong Roster
France remains one of the primary threats to U.S. dominance, arriving in Berlin with eight WNBA players, including Gabby Williams, Dominique Malonga, and Marine Johannès.