ISTANBUL – The Turkish Basketball Federation has announced the 12-player roster for the A Milli Kadın Basketbol Takımı (Turkey Women’s National Basketball Team) ahead of the FIBA 2026 Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament. The team is preparing to compete for a spot in the prestigious tournament, with the qualifying event taking place on home soil.
Tournament Set for March 11-17 in Istanbul
Turkey will host the qualifying tournament at the Turkcell Basketbol Gelişim Merkezi in Istanbul from March 11-17. Under the guidance of head coach Andrea Mazzon, the national team will aim to secure a berth in the World Cup in front of their home fans. The tournament represents a significant opportunity for Turkish basketball, and the team is focused on delivering a strong performance.
The National Team Roster
Head coach Andrea Mazzon has selected the following 12 players to represent Turkey in the qualifying tournament:
- Ayşe Cora Yamaner
- Beren Burke
- Derin Erdoğan
- Elif Bayram
- Esra Ural Topuz
- Gökşen Fitik
- Melek Uzunoğlu
- Olcay Çakır Turgut
- Sevgi Uzun
- Sinem Ataş
- Şerife Alperi Onar
- Zeynep Şevval Gül
The selection process was undoubtedly competitive, with Coach Mazzon carefully considering the strengths and potential of various players. This final roster reflects a blend of experience and emerging talent, positioning the team for a challenging but promising tournament.
For fans unfamiliar with the FIBA qualifying format, these tournaments are crucial stepping stones towards major international competitions like the World Cup. Teams compete in a series of games to earn a spot in the main event, making each match incredibly high-stakes. The Turkcell Basketbol Gelişim Merkezi, a modern facility dedicated to basketball development, will provide an excellent venue for these important games.
The A Milli Kadın Basketbol Takımı is continuing its preparations in Istanbul, working diligently to refine their strategies and build team cohesion. The team’s training regimen is focused on both individual skill development and collective tactical execution, ensuring they are fully prepared to face their opponents. The atmosphere within the team is reportedly positive and determined, with players eager to represent their country on the international stage.
This tournament is particularly significant for Turkish basketball as it provides a platform to showcase the nation’s growing talent and passion for the sport. The home-court advantage is expected to play a crucial role, with the support of local fans providing a significant boost to the team’s morale and performance. The Turkish Basketball Federation is actively promoting the event to encourage widespread attendance and generate excitement around the national team.
Looking ahead, the team’s performance in this qualifying tournament will have a direct impact on their chances of competing in the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. Securing a spot in the World Cup would be a major achievement for Turkish basketball, further elevating the sport’s profile within the country and inspiring future generations of players. The team is fully aware of the importance of this opportunity and is committed to giving their all on the court.
Fans can stay updated on the A Milli Kadın Basketbol Takımı’s progress through the Turkish Basketball Federation’s official website and social media channels. The federation will be providing regular updates on training schedules, game results, and other relevant information. The team’s journey to the World Cup is one that basketball enthusiasts across Turkey will be following closely.
The next confirmed action for the A Milli Kadın Basketbol Takımı is the start of the FIBA 2026 Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament on March 11th in Istanbul. Be sure to check the Turkish Basketball Federation’s official channels for game times and broadcast information.
What are your predictions for the Turkish team in the qualifying tournament? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
