Sichuan Yuanda Meile Aims for FIBA WBL Asia Title in 2026

The team, representing the Women's Chinese Basketball Association, participated in the inaugural edition of the prestigious women's club tournament in Chengdu, where they emerged as champions. In front of over 8,000 fans, Sichuan secured the title by defeating Fujitsu Red Wave of Japan 74-69 in the final. Han Xu was pivotal in the victory, contributing 24 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, and was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player with an average of 17.7 points per game.

The path back to WBL Asia was marked by a redemption story during the 2024-25 WCBA season, where the Pandas reached the finals but were defeated by Guangdong Vermillion Birds. The Vermillion Birds subsequently represented China and won the 2025 WBL Asia title. Sichuan overcame this setback in the 2025-26 season, reclaiming their league championship by defeating Shanxi Flame in a best-of-5 series.

Key players for Sichuan heading into the tournament include Chennedy Carter, who joins after a standout performance for Al Ula in 2025, where she led the league in scoring with 29.0 points per game. Her remarkable 45-point game included 11 rebounds and 6 assists. Joining her is veteran international Sara Blicavs, previously of the Shandong Six Stars, who brings valuable experience and has contributed to Australia's successes in the FIBA Asia Cup and Women's World Cup.

Veteran guard Gao Song is expected to lead the local roster, continuing a legacy that includes notable players such as Xu, Li Meng, and Wang Siyu from the first WBL Asia edition.