FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026: Nigeria drawn against France,

By JOE APU

Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, will face a tough Group B challenge after the draw ceremony for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 was held in Berlin on Tuesday, confirming the tournament’s groupings.

The draw, which set the path to the global title, placed Nigeria alongside France, Hungary, and Korea in what is expected to be one of the most competitive groups of the expanded 16-team competition.

Recall that two of the teams France and Korea defeated Nigeria’s D’Tigress (93-86) and (77-60) respectively during the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifiers in Lyon, France with Nigeria finishing the series with a 2-3 record.The tournament, scheduled to hold from September 4 to 13, 2026, in Berlin, marks a historic expansion from 12 to 16 teams, reflecting the rapid growth of women’s basketball worldwide.

In the other groups, defending heavyweights and global contenders also learned their fate. Group A features Japan, Spain, Germany, and Mali, while Group C includes Belgium, Australia, Puerto Rico, and Türkiye. Group D pits the United States against Czechia, Italy, and China.

The draw ceremony was conducted by Australian basketball legend Lauren Jackson, with support from German handball icon Stefan Kretzschmar and international breakdancing star Jilou. FIBA Hall of Famer Sue Bird, serving as Global Ambassador, officially unveiled the World Cup trophy.

Senior officials including FIBA President Sheikh Saud Ali Al Thani and Secretary General Andreas Zagklis were also present, alongside representatives of participating federations and the German Local Organizing Committee.

Nigeria will be hoping to build on its growing reputation in women’s basketball, with D’Tigress consistently ranked among Africa’s strongest sides and regular qualifiers on the global stage. Their Group B opponents, however, present a stern test, particularly against European powerhouse France.

The event also featured members of the FIBA Hall of Fame Class of 2026, including Dirk Nowitzki, Sue Bird, and other global basketball icons, underscoring the prestige surrounding the draw ceremony.

With the groups now confirmed, attention shifts to preparations as Nigeria aims to make a strong statement on the world stage in Berlin.