The Women's Basketball World Cup delivered a surprise early on as Mali overcame Spain 82-73, capturing its inaugural tournament title and becoming only the second African side to win the competition, following a 2010 triumph.
Sika Kone was the catalyst for Mali’s breakthrough, pouring in 19 points and hitting two crucial three‑pointers during a 16‑4 run that swung momentum decisively in Mali’s favor, igniting a surge that left Spain scrambling to respond.
Veteran Djeneba N'Diaye added 19 points of his own, reinforcing Mali’s offensive surge, while Spain, accustomed to being among the tournament favorites, struggled to recover from a 45‑44 deficit in the third quarter and ultimately finished with a modest 73 points.
In a separate match, Germany dispatched Japan 74-58, employing a disciplined defensive approach that limited Japan’s three‑point attempts; Frieda Buhner contributed 19 points, and Leonie Fiebich’s tenacious defense helped seal the win.
Group A Remains Tight
Hungary achieved a historic milestone by beating Nigeria 71-67, securing its first World Cup victory in 28 years; Dorka Juhasz led the charge with 19 points and 16 rebounds, while Virag Takacs‑Kiss supplied 17 points and Juhasz complemented her performance with 13 points and 11 rebounds in the opening half.
Nigeria fought back from a 66‑52 deficit late in the game, but a final basket by Elizabeth Balogun sealed Hungary’s triumph, underscoring the competitiveness of Group A where all four teams now sit at a 1‑1 record.
With each team having secured a win, the Group A standings remain balanced, setting the stage for decisive matchups that will determine which nation advances to the knockout rounds.