BRNO (Czechia) - There's a lot to love in Group B of the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 with four nations all ready to produce some intriguing and entertaining matchups.
In their role as FIBA U16 Women's EuroBasket 2025 winners, Spain look very much the team to beat, although Continental rivals Germany are a nation on the rise and could be very dangerous.
China are always a tough side for anybody to face although they must bounce back from the shock of missing the FIBA U16 Women's Asia Cup 2025 podium, while Mexico will feel that can be a dark horse and pull off a surprise.
The Favorite: Spain
Spain will be expected to take pole position not only because they claimed U16 silverware last year, but because of the way they did it. Their defensive capabilities are superb and they are a side that can lock down their opponents and simply swallow the key.
They have real depth, rely on stellar teamwork, and also have some top prospects. None more so than U16 MVP, Isabel Hernandez.
The Underdog: Mexico
They might not be a fancied by many people to light it up, but Mexico have shown they are capable down the years of putting in performances and taking wins. The hosts of the last edition not only gained victories in 2024 on home soil, but were also highly competitive in their other outings.
Then, last year at U16 they occupied the third podium step for a memorable bronze medal and if Belen Velazquez impresses again, they could defy their underdog label in Brno.
The Pivotal Game: Germany vs China
This is a mouth-watering matchup as both teams will be realistically looking to mop up second place in the group and each are capable of doing so.
They also both have quality leaders to carry them to potential victory in the shape of Mia Weigand and Li Yuanshan who starred at their respective Continental tournaments last year. The former with her all-around displays and the latter with her scoring prowess.
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Looking for more about the teams in the Group? Don't forget to check our other pieces telling you more about each nation's prospects.
FIBA