FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026: Spain loses to Mali, 82-73

BERLIN, GERMANY - SEPTEMBER 05: Alicia Florez of Spain drives to the basket during the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup Germany 2026 match between Mali and Spain at Max Schmeling Halle on September 05, 2026 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Milad Payami/FIBA via Getty Images) | FIBA via Getty Images Th

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What is the story about?

The Spain national women’s basketball team lost to Mali, 82-73 on Saturday in Group A play of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup. This is the first major upset in the tournament.

Mali took a lead in the first quarter before Spain finished the half with a lead But in the second half, they outscored Spain 31-19 in the third quarter and never looked back. Atlanta Dream (and former Washington Mystics) forward Sika Kone scored 19 points and 10 rebounds to lead Mali.

Mystics guard Alicia Florez scored 18 points

in 16 minutes of game action.

Spain plays Japan on Monday in their last game of Group A action.