The Golden State Valkyries will have a prominent international presence at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup scheduled from September 4 to 13 in Berlin, Germany. The team features five players representing five different countries, while Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase will serve as an assistant coach for Team USA.
Players Janelle Salaün and Gabby Williams will compete for France, Cecilia Zandalasini will play for Italy, Miela Sowah will represent Australia, and Kokoro Tanaka will suit up for Japan. Natalie Nakase, as head coach of the Valkyries, is lending her expertise to Team USA’s coaching staff for the tournament.
Janelle Salaün was named TISSOT MVP at the qualifying tournament in Lyon-Villeurbanne, averaging 16.7 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. Gabby Williams, who helped France reach the quarterfinals of the 2022 FIBA World Cup, averaged 15.8 points per game with strong all-around contributions. Cecilia Zandalasini earned All-Star Five honors at the San Juan qualifying tournament and led Italy to its first World Cup appearance since 1994. Miela Sowah posted 11 points per game en route to Australia’s gold medal at the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup. Kokoro Tanaka, the Valkyries’ 38th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, averaged 10.8 points with efficient shooting percentages during qualification.
The 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup features 16 teams divided into four groups. Group play runs from September 4 to 7, with the top team in each group advancing directly to the quarterfinals. Second and third place teams will compete in qualification games, with winners advancing to face group leaders in the quarterfinals. The tournament winner will secure a berth in the 2028 Olympic Games. Broadcast coverage includes HBO Max, TNT, and truTV.
CSB Take
The Golden State Valkyries’ wide representation at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup underscores the franchise’s role in developing top international talent. Having five players competing for different countries, plus head coach Natalie Nakase on Team USA’s staff, elevates the Valkyries’ profile globally. This experience will be invaluable as these players and coaches return to the WNBA with enhanced skills and competition experience heading into future seasons.
Source: Original report
