SANTIAGO (Chile) – After breaking down Grupo A of the FIBA Women's AmeriCup 2025, it’s time to take a look at Group B ahead of the tournament’s opening day on Saturday, June 28.
Group B features powerhouse United States, always a title contender; Puerto Rico, one of the region’s strongest teams in recent years; Colombia, a consistent performer; Mexico, coming off a promising 2024; and the host Chile, who will try to respond in front of their fans. Each team is aiming to secure one of the six available spots in the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournaments, held in March 2026. The winner of the Women’s AmeriCup will not only earn a spot in the Qualifying Tournaments but will also clinch a direct berth to the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
Favorite: United States
U.S., the silver medalists at the previous edition, will field a roster packed with rising NCAA stars. While this is a young team, the players are brimming with talent and eager to reclaim the title they lost in 2023. Head coach Kara Lawson, who also leads Duke University’s women’s program, brings extensive experience coaching USA national teams. Lawson is well suited to guide this group of young prospects such as Hannah Hidalgo, Madison Booker, Flau’jae Johnson, Joyce Edwards, Raegan Beers, among others. While player development is a priority, the Americans always aim to contend for gold and continue the nation’s storied legacy in women’s basketball.
Underdog: Chile
Host nation, Chile, will benefit from home-court support, but will still face an uphill battle. The team is up against more established opponents and will also be without its two key contributors from the last South American Championship: Fernanda Ovalle, the team’s leading scorer and rebounder, will be competing with the national 3x3 squad, and veteran center Tatiana Gómez, the second-best contributor, is dealing with physical issues. Head coach Cristian Santander previously stated that he plans to rely on several young players for this tournament.
Key matchup: Mexico vs. Colombia
The two teams will face off on June 30, during day three of group play. Mexico showed strong form last year, with Gabriela Jáquez leading the charge at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Pre-Qualifying Tournament, which Mexico hosted. Colombia, meanwhile, finished fifth in three consecutive AmeriCups, ranking just behind the continent's top-tier teams. With most of its core roster still intact, Colombia will be fighting to maintain its position. The last time they met, the Colombians claimed a 59-42 win during the Group Phase of the 2023 AmeriCup. This time, the matchup could very well decide who finishes third in the group.
Wild card: Who will challenge the USA?
On paper, Puerto Rico appears to be the toughest test for the Americans in Group B. The island squad brings more experience than the youthful U.S. team and is fresh off competing at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Puerto Rico confirmed that its two main stars — shooting guard Arella Guirantes and forward Mya Hollingshed — will be in action, meaning the U.S. will have to prove its mettle in what promises to be a fierce battle, likely to determine the top spot in the group.
FIBA