Turkish Women's National Basketball Team starts World Cup with a defeat

Facing Belgium in their opening match in Group C of the FIBA 2026 Women's Basketball World Cup, the Turkish Women's National Basketball Team left the court with a defeat in the match played at the Max-Schmeling-Halle.

Match Details and the First Quarter

Our national team faced Belgium in their first match of Group C at the FIBA 2026 Women's Basketball World Cup at the Max-Schmeling-Halle, and the first period was quite contested.

Belgium finished the first period ahead 26-24, with both teams finding four successful three-pointers and the lead changing hands frequently.

A Balanced Second Quarter

While Belgium failed to maintain the six-point advantage they captured in the first part of the second period, the crescent-and-star team capitalized well on their opponent's mistakes.

As the final twenty-six seconds of the half entered a tie at forty-four all, Turkey went into the locker room leading 45-44 thanks to a point scored from a free throw.

Belgium's Dominance in the Third Period

At the beginning of the third period, both teams struggled to score, and Belgium became effective under the paint against our fading nationals.

Extending the lead with successive baskets by Meesseman, Belgium carried the margin to double digits in the sixteenth minute of the period, entering the final quarter ahead 71-54.

Match Result and Rosters

Maintaining their superiority in the final quarter, Belgium won the match 89-75, causing the nationals to start the tournament with a defeat.

Among the top scorers for Turkey in the match, Burke stood out with 17 points, while Meesseman played a starring role in Belgium's victory with 27 points.