Storm players help France, Spain, Australia win World Cup hoops openers
France's Dominique Malonga and Spain's Awa Fam had big games as their teams won, and the two Storm players on the Australia team played roles in the Opals' victory.
Awa Fam of Spain shoots in a 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup game against host Germany on Sept. 4, 2026. (Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
(Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
The four Seattle Storm players competing in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Germany all helped their teams win Friday. Here’s a look at the first day of action.
Clark, Bueckers shine in World Cup debuts as US women rout China 94-61
France serves warning
France lived up to its billing as one of the favorites with a comprehensive 99-53 win over Hungary.
Storm All-Star Dominique Malonga had a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds, and her former Storm teammate Gabby Williams as well as Marine Johannes also scored 17 for the Olympic silver medalist.
France continues play Saturday against Korea.
Spain too strong for the host
Storm rookie Awa Fam led Spain to another win over Germany, contributing 17 points in a dominant 83-53 victory. Fam, a center, shot 3 of 4 on 3-pointers and 6 of 9 from the field, and made four rebounds, two steals and two assists.
Despite vocal support from home fans in the 14,000-seat Berlin Arena, Germany did not lead at any stage and has failed to beat Spain in eight competitive meetups.
Leonie Fiebich scored 13 points to lead Germany, followed by Nyara Sabally with 10.
Spain next plays Mali on Saturday.
Australia starts with a win
Steph Talbot scored 19 points as Australia defeated Puerto Rico 70-54.
Guard Jade Melbourne had 10 points, two assists and two steals, and her Storm teammate Ezi Magbegor scored 11 and grabbed nine rebounds for the Opals.
Australia lost its opening games at the last World Cup and at the Olympics, so the victory takes the pressure off coach Sandy Brondello’s team with the four group winners in the expanded 16-team tournament progressing straight to the quarterfinals.
Australia next faces Turkey on Sunday.
The Associated Press and Seattle Sports staff contributed to this post.
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