BERLIN (Germany) - The FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 is almost here and that means it's not only the quest for silverware that will soon get underway, but also an absorbing race to be crowned MVP of the competition.
Before the action tips off in Berlin, let's look at which players have the best chances of winning the TISSOT Most Valuable Player award at the closing ceremony on Sunday September 13.
Who will follow in the footsteps of USA standout A'ja Wilson who carried her nation to the title in 2022?
We're focusing on ballers from those nations who have the best chance to land on the podium at the event and here are 10 potential candidates to take the prestigious honor.
10. Paige Bueckers - USA
As Bueckers prepares to play at her first ever World Cup, it is not beyond the realms of possibility she could have a dream debut and end up being the key baller for the champions.
She has the game to excel and with some absentees, there is even more space than expected for her to step up at her maiden edition. It's going to be fun to see if this MVP ladder is warranted and if she can climb even higher.
9. Mai Yamamoto - Japan
If there is one team that could come out of the pack and cause an upset, could it be Japan because of their ability to potentially blow teams away with their offensive firepower?
If the Asian side did rekindle the form and spirit of Tokyo 2020 when they made the Olympic Final, then maybe it will be their standout baller Mai Yamamoto that would be the most likely to land a surprise MVP honor.
8. Megan Gustafson - Spain
While Spain have so many ballers who could all be in the running for MVP if they get things right and make a deep run in the competition, it's arguably Gustafson that is most likely to lead this pack.
Normally one of the most efficient finishers in the paint, always a big scoring threat and dominant on the glass, if Gustafson does bring her 'A game' then maybe she will be in contention.
7. Julie Allemand - Belgium
The playmaker has been outstanding in this competition ever since she debuted in 2018 when Belgium took their first World Cup footsteps. During the past eight years or so, Allemand has been a brilliant leader for the Cats.
At the heart of their success in winning two FIBA Women's EuroBasket titles and taking her game to new heights, she could be the one that inspires her country to what would be a first ever medal on the FIBA global stage.
6. Ezi Magbegor - Australia
With a third-place finish at their last two global tournaments in Paris 2024 and Sydney 2022, the Opals will be fancied to continue their medal streak. If they do, then Magbegor is likely to provide one of the main thrusts.
While Australia are perhaps less reliant on one or two marquee players than some teams, it won't be a surprise if the center catches fire and stands out. Her athleticism, scoring ability, rebounding and defense will be essential.
5. Marine Johannes - France
Firstly, France have to get over what feels like a real jinx, having not won a medal since the maiden World Cup edition in 1953. But if they actually play to their full potential, then this mind-blowing wait for success could end.
Johannes is the kind of 'X-Factor' player who can be the difference between an extension of their agonizing wait, or overdue glory. If she starts making big shots, France have a genuine unstoppable talent and MVP contender.
4. Caitlin Clark - USA
Imagine the reaction if one of the most popular and followed players in global women's hoops is the star for USA on World Cup debut and is MVP! The guard already won TISSOT MVP at the Qualifying Tournament in San Juan.
So, to follow it up with the honor in Berlin would be sensational. Everyone knows that Clark has the game to deliver for USA and it's going to be a gripping experience following her contributions at her first major tournament.
3. Emma Meesseman - Belgium
With history made after taking successive FIBA Women's EuroBasket TISSOT MVP awards, can you really back against Meesseman winning this race in Berlin? Especially if the Cats click into the high gear they found in Wuhan.
That Qualifying Tournament form was exceptional and even if the Cats didn't necessarily win the World Cup, you could still potentially see their leader taking honors if she lives up to her already legendary status.
2. Gabby Williams - France
If France can show the kind of level they did at Paris 2024, then who knows? There might be some overdue delight and central to their prospects is their brilliant leader who sets an exceptional example on both ends of the floor.
The forward was so influential at the Olympics and with her in situ, France can end their World Cup medal drought. If they do, then you have to anticipate that it will be Williams that inspires a dream return to the podium steps.
1. Breanna Stewart - USA
Having already been crowned TISSOT MVP back at the 2018 edition in Tenerife, there's a big chance Stewart could become the first player to pick up the distinguished accolade twice. Certainly with USA being red-hot favorites.
Likely to be a main leader for the reigning champions like always, Stewart would cement her reputation as one of the all-time best ballers in the women's game. Don't rule it out, because we all know what magic she is capable of.
*The MVP Ladder rankings are entirely subjective and are in no way a true and accurate FIBA ranking system. All comments are purely those of the author and the purpose is to entertain the fans.
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