Zandalasini set to lead 32-year World Cup return

Group play begins Sept. 4 in Berlin

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 281 min read

What can Italy achieve with Cecilia Zandalasini leading the way? ✨ #FIBAWWC 🇮🇹 TEAM PROFILE https://t.co/e3UnvaslIR htt Via @FIBAWWC on X

What happened: The small forward helped secure qualification with a 4-1 run in San Juan. She scored 22 points in a 68-56 victory that booked the berth.

Why it matters: A continental bronze medal in 2025 supplied momentum for the return to the global stage. The side enters Berlin ranked No. 14 in the world.

By the numbers: Zandalasini averaged 13.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.0 assists across five qualifiers. She shot 47.2% from the field and 88.9% at the line.

What to watch: The opener is followed by group games Sept. 5 and Sept. 7.

Sources

@FIBAWWC 2026-07-28T08:24:15.524643+00:00

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