BERLIN (Germany) - The sense of familiarity will be strong in FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 Group B as France, Korea and Nigeria play each other again six months after meeting in Lyon-Villeurbanne.
How much of a bearing the games in the Qualifying Tournament will have on what unfolds in Berlin remains to be seen, with Hungary the other team getting ready to try and impress.
How will things pan out for Korea, Nigeria and Hungary - can any of them slow down favorites France?
The Favorite: France
The last time France had all their big-guns lined up, they were almost crowned Olympic champions, while they also looked imperious at the Qualifying Tournament when they won all of their games. That has them rightly installed as favorites to win the group - as well as one of the frontrunners to challenge USA for the famous trophy.
They have so much talent, skill and know-how on their roster that you feel it is in their hands and they can potentially make history by reaching the Final for the first time. But ducks in a row, let's see if they firstly preserve pole position in the Group as anticipated.
The Underdog: Hungary
In reality, this is a tough choice. Especially as Hungary emerged from the 'Group of Death' in Istanbul and claimed the scalps of Japan, Türkiye and Argentina. This shows they can be dangerous, although they do have so much reliance on star center, Dorka Juhasz.
She was sensational in the Qualifying Tournament but was injured shortly afterwards and Hungary will need to have her firing on all cylinders to boost their prospects of making the top eight in the German capital.
The Pivotal Game: Korea vs Nigeria
This one is seriously fascinating. Not least because they met in Lyon-Villeurbanne and it was Korea who collected a convincing 17-point victory. That gives Korea the confidence that on their day, they can beat Nigeria and maybe they have the number of the African champions. However, the loss of star center, Jisu Park is a hammer-blow.
On the flip-side, their past meeting also gives Nigeria the chance to use revenge as a fuel for success. It's going to be an absorbing encounter and could have significant ramifications for group positions.
The Superstar: Gabby Williams (France)
The last time France played on the very top global stage hunting for medals was at Paris 2024 and the forward famously almost gave the hosts a sensational Olympic win in the classic Final with USA. If France want to compete and push for a title, they will need her to be operating at her best level.
The talent, leadership and especially defensive spark she offers is extensive and she is All-Star Five material like always and will be one of the most prominent names in the TISSOT MVP conversation too.
The Rising Star: Dominique Malonga (France)
The sense of excitement and anticipation will be huge when Malonga takes to the floor in Berlin - especially after her work in the Qualifying Tournament when she threw down a dunk.
Her sheer size, length and athleticism is phenomenal and getting better offensively, she can be a power for her country, also potentially morphing into a dominant force during coming years.
Did you know?
- France are looking to break a truly epic World Cup medal drought. They have only even stood on the podium once previously when they took bronze at the maiden edition - some 73 years ago.
- Korea are loving the most amazing and longest World Cup appearance streak in history. After missing the first three editions, they have never missed since and that means they are at their 17th edition in a row.
- Hungary feature in 19th place in the FIBA World Ranking Presented by Nike - Women, which is the lowest of any team in the competition.
FIBA