Top Players to Watch at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026

20. Sika Kone (Mali) - Forward, born July 13, 2002, height 6'3" (1.90 m). Kone stood out for Mali in the last World Cup and showed great potential with a double-double at just 20 years old.

19. Kennedy Burke (Türkiye) - Guard, born February 14, 1997, height 6'1" (1.85 m). Naturalized for Türkiye, Burke's scoring ability and physicality will be crucial for the team making their return to a global tournament after eight years.

18. Ezinne Kalu (Nigeria) - Guard, born June 26, 1992, height 5'8" (1.73 m). A seasoned leader and playmaker, Kalu's experience will be essential for Nigeria's chances of advancing from their group.

17. Alexis Peterson (Germany) - Guard, born June 20, 1995, height 5'5" (1.65 m). Peterson's debut was marked by impressive play, and she will be a key player as Germany faces pressure without significant guard depth.

16. Leeseul Kang (Korea) - Guard, born April 5, 1994, height 5'11" (1.80 m). Known for her shooting, Kang was a top performer in the last World Cup and will be pivotal for Korea’s success in Berlin.

15. Cecilia Zandalasini (Italy) - Guard, born March 16, 1996, height 6'1" (1.86 m). Zandalasini has evolved into a creator and leader for Italy, contributing significantly during the Qualifying Tournament.

14. Dorka Juhasz (Hungary) - Center, born December 18, 1999, height 6'4" (1.92 m). Juhasz played exceptionally in the Qualifying Tournament, crucial for Hungary's first World Cup appearance this century despite recent injury concerns.

13. Megan Gustafson (Spain) - Forward/Center, born December 13, 1996, height 6'3" (1.90 m). Gustafson's scoring and rebounding capabilities will play a crucial role as Spain aims for a podium finish after missing the last tournament.

12. Xu Han (China) - Center, born October 31, 1999, height 6'9" (2.05 m). Han is becoming a Chinese basketball icon, known for her height and shooting touch, and will be one of the key players for her country.

11. Sami Whitcomb (Australia) - Guard, born July 20, 1988, height 5'10" (1.78 m). Aged 38, Whitcomb remains a top player, showcasing her talents during the Qualifying Tournament and aiming for a strong showing in Berlin.

10. Leonie Fiebich (Germany) - Small Forward, born January 10, 2000, height 6'4" (1.92 m). Fiebich's shooting and rebounding will be vital for Germany, especially with key players sidelined.

9. Marine Johannes (France) - Guard, born January 21, 1995, height 5'10" (1.77 m). After missing the last tournament due to injury, Johannes is eager to impress and help France achieve their best result since 1953.

8. Julie Allemand (Belgium) - Guard, born July 7, 1996, height 5'9" (1.74 m). An exceptional playmaker, Allemand has a stellar assist record and will be critical as Belgium aims for a first World Cup medal.

7. Caitlin Clark (USA) - Guard, born January 22, 2002, height 6'0" (1.83 m). After winning the MVP award at the Qualifying Tournament, Clark is poised to make a significant impact for the USA team in Berlin.

6. Mai Yamamoto (Japan) - Guard, born October 23, 1999, height 5'4" (1.63 m). A key player for Japan, Yamamoto's scoring ability and experience will be crucial as Japan competes in this year's tournament.

5. Ezi Magbegor (Australia) - Center, born August 13, 1999, height 6'4" (1.93 m). Magbegor's athleticism and experience will be essential for Australia's campaign in Berlin.

4. Gabby Williams (France) - Forward, born September 9, 1996, height 5'11" (1.88 m). A fan favorite, Williams is known for her leadership and defensive prowess, aiming for a podium finish.

3. Emma Meesseman (Belgium) - Forward, born May 13, 1993, height 6'4" (1.93 m). A standout player for Belgium, Meesseman seeks to lead her team to new heights after their historical achievements in recent years.

2. Breanna Stewart (USA) - Forward, born August 27, 1994, height 6'3" (1.91 m). Stewart aims to equal Sue Bird's record with her potential fourth World Cup title while being a pivotal player for Team USA.

1. A'ja Wilson (USA) - Forward, born August 8, 1996, height 6'4" (1.93 m). Regarded as one of the world's best players, Wilson is pursuing her third straight MVP award and will be a central figure in the USA's campaign.