SYDNEY (Australia) - The Group Phase of the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup is going to be exciting, compelling and produce a series of amazing matchups and not least, Lauren Jackson's comeback game.

So with watching the return of the Opals' legend on home soil very much a no-brainer, what would be the six must see games that you should put in your diary?

Canada v Serbia - Thursday 22 September (13:00 local time) 

What kind of impact will Kia Nurse have on her return from injury in what could be a 'must-win' game for Canada?

This Group B clash could be the most pivotal in the battle to make it to the Quarter-Finals, rather than enduring the alternative disappointment of heading home early. With Mali being widely tipped to miss out in the 'Group of Death' many observers and indeed the FIBA Expert Panel have largely spoken about  Serbia or Canada missing the last eight of the competition.  As well as Bridget Carleton providing a backcourt thrust, Canada have the returning Kia Nurse. Meanwhile Serbia is looking for some new leaders to emerge, with the likes of Jovana Nogic looking capable of turning up the dial. It's going to be an epic first day battle. 

Australia v France - Thursday 22 September (20:30 local time)

This Group B contest aka the 'Lauren Jackson fairtyale comeback game' is the hottest ticket in town and the one everyone wants to see.  As if LJ coming back was not exciting enough, it's obviously the first time the Opals will play in front of the home crowd. And, throw in the fact that this is actually one Australia probably can't afford to lose if they want to be assured of a top two spot in the Groupo, it's looking like it will be a nail-biting and thrilling experience. France is missing some key ballers and will be under pressure to improve after some tough losses in the last 12 months, but they will be looking to spoil the first night party in a big way!

USA v China - Saturday 24 September (14:30 local time)

Xu Han has spent the past few months playing in the USA with her China colleague Yueri Li

This Group A duel sees the defending champions and favorites facing the highly fancied China in a game that many feel could even be worthy of the Final itself. This is probably going to be the USA's toughest group game and many will argue the time when everyone gets to gauge the level of the favorites. China of course have a lot to prove if they want to live up to the current hype. There will be plenty of exciting dynamics and not least because Chinese centers Yueri Li and Xu Han spent recent months Stateside in the WNBA.

Belgium v Bosnia and Herzegovina - Monday 26 September (11:30 local time)

Bosnia and Herzegovina have beaten Belgium twice in just over 18 months in Continental competitions

These two Group A teams have serious recent history. Bosnia and Herzeovina seemingly have got Belgium's number. Firstly they dominated them 70-55 at the FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2021 in Strasbourg, then beat them 87-81 in the Qualifiers for the 2023 edition. Both came under different Cats' head coaches too. So, will it be third time lucky for Belgium? But never mind the context or back story because this is Emma Meesseman going up against Jonquel Jones and the former club teammates always put on a treat!

Serbia v France - Tuesday 27 September (17:30 local time)

Rising star Iliana Rupert will be looking to post her most impacyful senior tournament to date with France

This Group B contest could be a 'winner-takes-all' affair since either or both nations may need the win to stay in Sydney, such is the competitive nature of a possibly cuthroat pool. A last day showdown, it also has extra spice since it is a repeat of last year's FIBA Women's EuroBasket Final. It was Serbia who got the upper hand that time, but they have since waved goodbye to their veteran legends Sonja Vasic and Jelena Brooks. France will be eager for the dynamic backcourt of Marine Johannes and Marine Fauthoux to shine, with rising star Iliana Rupert likely to be engaged in a super battle under the bucket with Serbian power house Tina Krajisnik. 

Australia v Japan - Tuesday 27 September (20:30 local time)

Ezi Mabegor will be a major force for Australia in their quest to reach the knockout phase in a good position

What a way to finish the opening phase of the tournament as the curtain falls on  Group B action with what has all the makings of a classic and especially if making the Quarter-Finals is on the line - or perhaps most likely, a fight for top spot in the pool. Remember, these two nations are big rivals in the FIBA Asia region and also spent time playing in a pre-tournament series, so know each other well. Traditionally, Japan has had to use their advantage in terms of quickness and backcourt shooting power, but have more frontcourt options now. So, look out for the battle inside between the likes of Ramu Tokashiki, Maki Takada, Himawari Akaho who will try to get the best of Ezi Magbegor, Cayla George and Marianna Tolo. There's going to be fireworks and it looks the perfect way to take us from the Group stage into the knockout phase!

FIBA