LYON-VILLEURBANNE (France) - The FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament in Lyon-Villeurbanne looks like it will provide a perfect platform for all teams to showcase their qualities and provide some compelling matchups.
Ultimately it's all about making the cut and advancing with a precious ticket to Berlin, with only Germany and Nigeria currently guaranteed a spot.
So, how will things unfold for France, Colombia, Germany, Korea, Nigeria and Philippines?
The Favorite: France
With a roster like this one, you could argue France should be winning the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 title itself. At least pushing favorites USA the same way they did at Paris 2024 in that hugely exciting gold medal game.
On home soil again as they were during the Games in the capital, the home fans are eager for a show. With so many star names, they will likely get one - led primarily by Marine Johannes, Gabby Williams and Valeriane Ayayi.
The Underdog: Philippines
New kids on the block at this level, Philippines are underdogs but will want to show they can be competitive. It could be rough against France, Germany and Nigeria, but they might face Korea and Colombia with more confidence. A challenge will be missing their biggest-hitters, leaving a lot resting on the likes of Afril Bernardino.
The Pivotal Game: Korea vs Colombia
With Korea having despatched Philippines in the FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2025 by some distance, they will feel a repeat is incoming. That effectively means this Colombia game is absolutely everything to their chances of making it to Berlin. Leeseul Kang and Ji Su Park will lead the way in a game they dare not lose.
Colombia will probably not posses the same level of offensive power as Korea and so must rely on their defense to shut down their opponents and take a precious victory. Guarding star center Park will also be a highly important mission that could prove decisive in determining the outcome.
The Superstar: Gabby Williams
Having Williams in the French team makes them a whole different proposition. Even if the remainder of the roster is stacked with real class, the forward brings that extra special dimension. From her athleticism, voracious appetite for steals, ability to make clutch players and her outstanding leadership, she's simply an all-around great player.
The Rising Star: Frieda Buhner
Outstanding at FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2025, it was no surprise to those who had seen Buhner post those fearless displays off the bench on her senior debut in front of huge crowds at Paris 2024. A brilliant performer in EuroCup Women again this season, the forward will continue to shine with her scoring and rebounding skills.
Did you know?
- Colombia, Germany and Philippines are playing at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament for the first time.
- France are the only team playing in Lyon-Villeurbanne who featured at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022.
- Colombia became a Top 20 nation in the FIBA Women's World Ranking, presented by NIKE after a huge jump of 11 spots and into 19th place after the last update.
- At the 2022 Qualifying Tournaments, Nigeria claimed a famous first ever win against France with an absorbing 67-65 comeback success. Down 31-11, they completed an amazing 22-point turnaround.
FIBA