STOCKHOLM (Sweden) — With the draw ceremony complete and the groups finalized, it's time to look ahead to what promises to be a fascinating FIBA U18 Women's EuroBasket 2026. Here's our comprehensive breakdown of all four groups.
Group A: France, Germany, Czechia, Hungary
France are the clear favorites in Group A, bringing the pedigree of five consecutive podium finishes and the potential return of dunking sensation Alicia Tournebize, who lit up the 2025 edition with her athleticism and flair. They'll be hungry to go one better after losing to Spain in the 2025 semi-finals.
Germany earned their spot through Division B promotion and will be eager to prove they belong. Clara Bielefeld's unique skill set — she averaged 17 rebounds and 13 assists in a single Division B game — could be a wildcard factor.
Czechia and Hungary are both experienced campaigners who will be battle-tested. Neither should be underestimated in what looks like a competitive but navigable group.
Group B: Finland, Sweden, Italy, Belgium
This is the group of death. Finland, fresh from their historic run to the 2025 Final, bring back a core of players from their U16-winning squad. Anna Gardziella and Nicole Ogun will be among the tournament's top players.
Sweden have home-court advantage and the momentum of their Division B title. Playing in Stockholm in front of their own fans could elevate them beyond their ranking.
Belgium and Italy are both solid programs with deep rosters. Belgium's Jada Lynch was an All-Star Five selection in 2025, and Italy will be desperate to improve on a disappointing quarter-final exit last time out.
Group C: Spain, Montenegro, Türkiye, Slovenia
Defending champions Spain are the team to beat in Group C — and arguably the entire tournament. With MVP Sara Okeke and floor general Gina Garcia potentially returning, they have the talent to repeat.
Slovenia's Tjasa Turnsek averaged over 20 points per game in 2025 and could be the group's breakout star. Montenegro and Türkiye will look to spoil the party and advance from a tricky group.
Group D: Serbia, Croatia, Latvia, Poland
Group D features some of the most intriguing individual matchups. Serbia's Jovana Popovic — who recorded a historic triple-double in 2025 — leads a talented squad, while Croatia bring the energy of newly promoted Division B third-place finishers.
Latvia's Anna Liepina (20.3 points, 11.3 rebounds in 2025) is a dominant force, and Poland's Maria Burliga provides the most versatile stat lines in the tournament. This group could be anyone's to win.
Key Dates
The tournament runs from August 1–9, 2026, with all games played in Stockholm, Sweden. Group stage matches will take place over the first four days, followed by classification and knockout rounds leading to the medal games on August 9.