2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup: Day 1 Results and Highlights

In the opening game, Japan defeated Mali 102-97, setting a tournament record with 20 three-pointers. Saki Hayashi hit nine of those, marking an individual record for the tournament, while Maki Takada secured the lead late with a crucial three-pointer.

Australia triumphed over Puerto Rico 70-54. After leading by six at halftime, Australia faced a challenge when Puerto Rico closed the gap in the third quarter. They responded with a nine-point run, pulling away for the win. Stephanie Talbot led Australia with 19 points, while Alanna Smith, Ezi Magbegor, and Jade Melbourne each added double-digit points.

Team USA launched its title defense with a commanding 94-61 victory against China. They established a 13-point lead in the first quarter and maintained control throughout. Caitlin Clark and Rhyne Howard combined for seven three-pointers, while Paige Bueckers and Kiki Iriafen were effective on defense with multiple blocks. Team USA will face Italy on Sunday.

Korea upset world No. 8 Nigeria with a 99-81 victory. Despite a close first half where Nigeria briefly took the lead, Korea surged in the fourth quarter, outscoring Nigeria 31-19. Isaem Choi, Leeseul Kang, and Jihyun Park contributed seven three-pointers to the cause.

Belgium overcame Türkiye 89-75 after a competitive first half. Türkiye led at halftime, but Belgium dominated the third quarter 27-9. Emma Meesseeman scored a game-high 27 points and recognized Julie Vanloo for her crucial performance.

Spain secured an 83-53 win over Germany, dominating almost the entire game. Despite an early lead from Germany, Spain's Awa Fam and Maria Conde combined for seven three-pointers, as Spain held Germany to just 17% shooting from beyond the arc.

Italy edged Czechia 63-54, overcoming a brief scare; they rallied with an 8-0 run late in the third quarter that turned the tide. Matilde Villa's five points in that stretch proved crucial as Italy maintained control in the fourth.

France completed Day 1 with a 99-53 win over Hungary. Three players, Dominique Malonga, Gabby Williams, and Marine Johannes, each scored 17 points. France established dominance early, leading 29-11 after the first quarter and 61-20 at halftime while forcing 22 turnovers from Hungary.

Both France and Korea will play next on Saturday, while the remaining teams will continue the tournament amid competitive matchups.