Australia Picked to Win Group C at 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup as Belgium Looms
Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Sep 3
Australia Picked to Win Group C at 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup as Belgium Looms
3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Sep 3
Summary
Group C opens Friday with Australia projected to finish first, ahead of Belgium, Turkey and Puerto Rico in the 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup.
No. 3-ranked Australia brings the strongest recent pedigree—bronze at the 2022 World Cup and 2024 Olympics—led by Ezi Magbegor's 14.7 points per game and Alanna Smith's 11.6 points and 8.0 rebounds in qualifying.
No. 5 Belgium is viewed as Australia's main threat, powered by Emma Meesseman's all-around qualifying line of 12.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 6.6 assists and 2.4 steals, plus Kyara Linskens' 15.0 points and 7.2 rebounds.
Turkey, ranked 16th, is cast as the group's wildcard behind Kennedy Burke's 16.4 points and 8.2 rebounds, while No. 13 Puerto Rico may need defense and a scoring lift from Arella Guirantes to advance.
The group is one of four in a 16-team tournament, with the preview arguing Australia's experience gives it the best chance to top the standings.