BERLIN (Germany) - Belgium have had an incredible rise to prominence during the past decade or so and have delivered many historical and magical moments, but are still chasing glory on the global stage.
The strongly fancied Cats have named the 12 ballers who are tasked with landing at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 and trying to lock down what so far at least, has been an elusive podium spot.
Having made the World Cup Semi-Finals back in 2018 on debut and having then come agonizingly close to an Olympic bronze medal at Paris 2024, Belgium are still chasing down this major slice of history.
The list of historical accomplishments since 2027 is already long. They won a first FIBA Women's EuroBasket medal, qualified for a maiden FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup, a first Olympic Games and of course, winning FIBA Women's EuroBasket for the first time in 2023 - before successfully defending their crown last year.
Once again, it will be Emma Meesseman who will be the centerpiece, with the veteran star a two-time FIBA Women's EuroBasket TISSOT MVP and looking to add yet more to her jaw-dropping career resume.
Julie Allemand will inspire her team in the backcourt, as she did when MVP of the Qualifying Tournament in Wuhan back in March. She loves this competition and that is evidenced by the fact she has handed out more assists per game than any other player in FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup history.
There are also the usual spots for fellow guard Julie Vanloo, who is often a spark for the Cats when they need it. As well as the ever impressive Antonia Delaere on the wing and powerful frame of Kyara Linskens under the hoop.
The remainder of the roster are all capable of important contributions, including sister act Billie and Becky Massey, as well as the energetic Maxuella Lisowa-Mbaka.
As the Cats have always shown under various different coaches, even with stellar names in their lineup it's still all about playing team basketball - the one thing that truly brings out the best of Belgian hoops.
Belgium will face Australia, Puerto Rico and Türkiye in Group C.
FIBA