BRNO (Czechia) - There's going to be some seriously stellar talent on show at the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 and many senior stars of the future.
We've been reviewing the rosters and have selected the Top 20 prospects to track - not only in the upcoming competition, but far beyond Brno as they each try to live up to the early hype and excitement.
In the second of our two-part series, we take a look at the top 10 ballers to have on your watch-list.
10. Emilia Ainley - New Zealand
A cornerstone of New Zealand's historic silver medal at the FIBA U16 Women's Asia Cup 2025, Ainley is a towering figure in the paint for her country. She has the height and length to cause problems for opponents, not only with boards and putback scores. She has post moves and an extended range if left open.
9. Michah Ojo - USA
A genuine MVP contender if USA are crowned champions, Ojo is a wing ace who will set the tone at both ends of the floor. With a great reading of the game, quick hands and strength, she is a mean defensive presence and has the smarts, physicality and skills on offence to be a leader for the tournament favorites.
8. Avery Arije- Canada
Having already pocketed a silver medal at the 2024 edition, the return of Arije in a new role as Canada's standout leader will see her high on each team's scouting report. She will carry the scoring load and has the shooting power to deliver. Her athleticism also makes her a nightmare to stop getting to the hoop. She's a real handful.
7. Veronika Ferjancic - Slovenia
The marquee player in a historic U16 Women's EuroBasket campaign for Slovenia when they were runners-up, she made the All-Star Five and a big statement with this. The forward is a class act and there's excitement at her potential. Ferjancic has a nice IQ and a lot of composure, making her a potential fast-track to the senior side.
6. Miya Takeuchi - Japan
Box-office best describes Takeuchi because of how she plays with a really big smile, entertains the fans with her moves and is also Japan's best player. She will likely score heavily and the fact her nation didn't even make the U16 Women's Asia Cup Final and yet their leader still took MVP honors, speaks volumes.
5. Isabel Smith - Australia
The playmaker will create a lot for the Sapphires from her ability to get downhill and create contact around the hoop. She finishes under rim pressure and is also a nice creator too, so will be at the heart of Australia's offensive options. Her productive outing at U16 Asia Cup last year showcased why she's so highly rated.
4. Isbael Hernandez - Spain
The main piece of the puzzle for Spain for sure. If she plays to her usual level, last year's U16 Women's EuroBasket MVP will take her team deep into this competition. The guard has all the attributes to put in game-winning displays, especially offensively. She is a clutch baller and a difference maker with her scoring skills.
3. Eve Long - USA
A superb prospect who leaves it on the court whenever she plays, Long is a forward who is so tough to live with for any defender. She has a quick first step, long strides and explosive tendencies, so she draws fouls as well as leaving opponents trailing in her wake. A top prospect and also a serious MVP contender if she fires.
2. Madison Ryan - Australia
It's amazing to think Ryan not only played the U17 Worlds in 2024 but also in Brno at the U19 Worlds last year. This highlights her maturity and why she's ahead of schedule in her basketball journey. If Australia excel, then it's likely she will be central to their success because of her inside-outside scoring, all-around ga and leadership.
1. Ivanna Wilson Manyacka - USA
The real deal, Wilson Manyacka is a top of the class prospect and incoming NCAA star. Already a FIBA U17 Worlds champion and U16 Women's AmeriCup MVP, the versatile guard and winger is both a defensive powerhouse as well as an offensive killer. She has got it all, so sit back and enjoy. Well, unless you're guarding her of course.
*The Top 20 prospects 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.
FIBA