FIBA World Cup Qualifiers

Recap: 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers (Window 4)

Flash back to the fourth round of the FIBA World Cup 2027 qualifiers in this NBA.com live blog.

Ben Lambert and Spencer Fordin, for NBA.com

Rui Hachimura was dominant while leading Japan to an undefeated record in the fourth window of FIBA World Cup 2027 qualifying.

Relive the fourth window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers with our live blog!

Rui Hachimura, Victor Wembanyama, Yves Missi, Pelle Larsson, Dennis Schröder and Neemias Queta had strong performances during the event, which also featured NBA stars like Nikola Jokić, Rudy Gobert and Lauri Markkanen.

Larsson became the first European player to put up back-to-back 30+ point games in FIBA World Cup qualifying history, while Queta helped Portugal to its first-ever win over Spain.

2026 NBA Draft picks Aday Mara and Baba Miller made their senior team debuts for Spain, which started to cultivate a new generation of talent that also includes Hugo González and Sergio De Larrea.

South Sudan, led by a series of former NBA players, made noise in the African qualifiers, as did Cameroon, sparked by Missi’s first appearance with the team.

Ukraine, leading Group I at 6-2, is in position to make its first FIBA World Cup since 2014, when it was led by Hall of Fame coach Mike Fratello. Coach Ainars Bagatskis has them shooting from distance with confidence, led by Svi Mykhailiuk.

Team USA won both its games in the window, and now stands at the top of Group E in Americas qualifying. Canada leads Group F with an undefeated 8-0 record.

Turkey, also undefeated at 8-0, became the first team to qualify for the FIBA World Cup 2027 with their final win of the window.

Check out the complete standings here, and enjoy the best highlights and game recaps below.

Start at the beginning of the event by clicking here.

What we know about the fourth round of FIBA World Cup 2027 qualifiers:

SEPTEMBER 1 / 1:53 a.m. ET

Monday’s results

Monday’s scores in Asian qualifying:

  • Korea 85, Saudi Arabia 72
  • Japan 123, Qatar 70
  • China 89, Lebanon 87

Monday’s scores in European qualifying:

  • Lithuania 78, Bosnia & Herzegovina 73
  • Greece 108, Spain 106
  • Serbia 76, Italy 64
  • Georgia 98, Portugal 90
  • Ukraine 98, Montenegro 89
  • Turkey 110, Iceland 73

Monday’s scores in Americas qualifying:

  • USA 104, Colombia 80
  • Canada 97, Argentina 92
  • Uruguay 80, Puerto Rico 75
  • Dominican Republic 101, Chile 66
  • Bahamas 100, Panama 82
  • Mexico 79, Brazil 74

SEPTEMBER 1 / 12:16 a.m. ET

Mexico upsets Brazil

Mexico took out Brazil, 79-74, after trading clutch shots down the stretch. Pako Saldivar led Mexico with 24 points on 9-for-11 shooting, and Moises Andriassi sank a key shot from deep late in the game to sink Brazil’s chances.

AUGUST 31 / 10:06 p.m. ET

USA spreads the wealth

AUGUST 31 / 9:54 p.m. ET

Bahamas get big win

VJ Edgecombe scored 25 points and the Bahamas earned a 100-82 victory over Panama.

AUGUST 31 / 9:34 p.m. ET

Canada hangs on for 97-92 win

The NBA duo of Luguentz Dort (25 points) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker (26 points) came up huge in leading Canada to an 8-0 record in group play.

Argentina hung around thanks to a command performance from Nicolas Laprovittola (31 points, 8-for-12 shooting on 3s), but it wasn’t enough to win.

Canada trailed 53-48 at halftime but surged to a 73-67 lead after the third quarter.

Argentina shot 13-for-32 from 3, and Canada nearly matched that with 11-for-31 shooting.

AUGUST 31 / 8:41 p.m. ET

USA nabs an easy win

Cole Swider (18 points), Orlando Robinson II (17 points) and a trio of players with 16 points (Jaron Blossomgame, DeJon Jarreau and James Nunnally) led the way as USA ran away with a 104-80 victory over Colombia.

USA shot 38-for-77 from the floor and 11-for-30 from 3 and improved to 7-1 in group play.

AUGUST 31 / 8:19 p.m. ET

USA is pouring it on

USA leads Colombia 80-56 after three quarters.

AUGUST 31 / 8:10 p.m. ET

Want to see a sweet dunk?

Jaron Blossomgame killing the rim for USA against Colombia.

AUGUST 31 / 8:08 p.m. ET

Upset alert?

Canada trails Argentina at the half 53-48. Luguentz Dort has 12 points on 3-for-4 shooting, and his teammate Nickeil Alexander-Walker has poured in 10 points.

Nicolas Laprovittola leads Argentina with 17 points on 4-for-6 shooting; all of his shots are on 3s.

Argentina is shooting 8-for-18 from 3.

AUGUST 31 / 7:47 p.m. ET

USA 53, Colombia 44 at halftime

Team USA’s Jaron Blossomgame has 11 points on 5-for-9 shooting, and Orlando Robinson II has 10 points.

Colombia is led by Braian Angola with 13 points.

USA is shooting 22-for-41 from the field and 4-for-13 from 3, but Colombia (15-for-39 from the floor and 5-for-17 from 3) is hanging in the game.

AUGUST 31 / 7:22 p.m. ET

USA is cruising

Jaron Blossomgame has seven points on 3-for-3 shooting and USA leads Colombia 32-23 after the first quarter.

AUGUST 31 / 6:55 p.m. ET

Canada’s top 12

Luguentz Dort and Nickeil Alexander-Walker will lead Canada against Argentina at 7:10 p.m. ET.

AUGUST 31 / 6:02 p.m. ET

Team USA is getting ready

USA vs. Colombia headlines a busy Monday night of FIBA action that also features Canada vs. Argentina.

AUGUST 31 / 5:40 p.m. ET

Undefeated Turkey demolishes Iceland

Onuralp Bitim and Cedi Osman (17 pts) apiece led six double-figure scorers in a 110-73 win over Iceland, while Philadelphia 76ers center Adem Bona (8 pts, 10 reb) nearly nabbed a double-double.

With the win, Turkey (8-0) becomes the first nation to qualify for the FIBA World Cup 2027.

They’ve qualified five times in their history, last in 2019, and won a silver medal in 2010 behind Hedo Türkoğlu, Ersan İlyasova, Ömer Aşık and Semih Erden.

AUGUST 31 / 4:45 p.m. ET

Ukraine takes the lead of Group I

Svi Mykhailiuk (23 pts, 5 3PM) put together some sweet shooting to help Ukraine overcome Montenegro 98-89, overcoming former Dallas Mavericks guard Yogi Ferrell (22 pts).

The Blue and Yellow shot 12-for-30 (40%) from 3-point range in the win.

With the win, Ukraine (6-2) ascends to the top spot in Group I, passing Spain after its loss to Greece.

The country last appeared in the FIBA World Cup in 2014, when it was coached by Naismith Hall of Famer Mike Fratello.

AUGUST 31 / 4:03 p.m. ET

Serbia, Georgia claim victories

Aleksa Avramovic (20 pts) and Marko Gurdic (19 pts) went off to keep Serbia (6-2) ahead of Italy, earning a 76-64 win that keeps them near the top of Group J.

Nikola Jokić (8 pts, 8 reb in 23:51) was largely kept in check, but Italy didn’t have the firepower to hang with Serbia, scoring just 10 fourth-quarter points. Nico Mannion (23 pts) was their top scorer.

Elsewhere, Georgia (5-3) overcame an early deficit to defeat Portugal 98-90 in the highly-competitive Group I, where all five teams remain within reach of advancing.

Tornike Shengelia (26 pts, 6 reb, 4 3PM in 40:00 minutes) did yeoman’s work for The Crusaders, joined by Sandro Mamukelashvili (22 pts, 6 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 3 3PM).

They out-battled Neemias Queta (20 pts, 11 reb) and Ruben Prey (15 pts on 4-for-5 shooting).

AUGUST 31 / 3:11 p.m. ET

Serbia leads a close contest after three

Nico Mannion (19 pts) is “playing with some serious fire and flair,” in the words of the announcer, putting up 14 points in the third quarter to keep Italy within striking distance at 57-54.

Marko Gudric (15 pts) is leading Serbia, while Nikola Jokić (8 pts, 7 reb) seeks to find his footing against physical defense on the road in Pesaro’s Vitrifrigo Arena.

The Heat’s Simone Fontecchio (15 pts, 3 3PM) has also had a strong performance for The Blues.

AUGUST 31 / 2:41 p.m. ET

Serbia up on Italy at the half

Nikola Jokić (8 pts, 6 reb) is in action as Serbia takes a 40-31 lead over Italy into the break, boosted by former Memphis Grizzlies guard Marko Guduric (8 pts).

Elsewhere, Neemias Queta (5 pts, 7 reb) and Portugal have a 34-33 lead over Georgia in the second period.

AUGUST 31 / 2:33 p.m. ET

Greece survives a late Spanish charge

Konstantinos Mitoglou and Tyler Dorsey (29 pts apiece) set new international career-highs as Greece held on to defeat Spain 108-106, winning their fifth straight home contest against their longtime rivals.

Spain rallied in the fourth quarter to force overtime and attempted to do the same in the extra period after Hellas took a 103-97 lead with 1:15 to go.

But Joel Parra (18 pts, 5 reb) missed one of two free throws with an opportunity to tie it in the final seconds, and Greece escaped with the win.

With the win, Greece (4-4) stays alive as they chase a FIBA World Cup 2027 berth in what could be the last chance for 37-year-old point guard Nick Calathes (13 pts, 8 ast).

Aday Mara (15 pts, 13 reb, 1 blk) had a strong performance in his second senior appearance for Spain.

AUGUST 31 / 2:07 p.m. ET

Juancho sends it to overtime

Former NBA player Juancho Hernangomez (5 pts) tied the game at 86 with a 3-pointer with 11 seconds, completing a fierce comeback by Spain to send their game with Greece to overtime.

Tyler Dorsey (25 pts, 5 3PM), who had made two clutch 3-pointers of his own down the stretch, took a half-court heave at the buzzer to no avail.

Spain was down 72-60 with 7:32 remaining, closing with a hot stretch to continue this clash of traditional European basketball powers.

AUGUST 31 / 1:36 p.m. ET

Lithuania defeats Bosnia & Herzegovina

Azuolas Tubelis (23 pts, 5 reb) and Augustas Marciulionis (16 pts, 5 reb, 4 ast) led Lithuania to a 78-73 win over Bosnia & Herzegovina, as The Golden Lillies struggled to find offense down the stretch.

Jusuf Nurkić (20 pts on 4-for-13 shooting, 3 reb) was largely held in check late, and Bosnia & Herzegovina went away from him and Luka Garza (14 pts, 7 reb in 17:08) down the stretch.

The game saw 12 lead changes and nine ties, as Lithuania turns its attention to Serbia-Italy, which has just tipped off.

AUGUST 31 / 1:07 p.m. ET

Tubelis taking over

69-64 Lithuania with 6:21 to go in the fourth quarter, as Azuolas Tubelis (21 pts) puts pressure on The Golden Lillies.

Tubelis, who was previously on a two-way contract with the Delaware Blue Coats after earning two All-Pac 12 First Team nods at Arizona, has shown a polished post game, and threw down on the break a moment ago to give The Second Religion a two-possession lead.

But Jusuf Nurkić (16 pts) has just returned to the game and worked his way to the free-throw line. It’s a close contest at Vilnius Arena in Lithuania.

AUGUST 31 / 12:55 p.m. ET

‘My heart is racing’

Greece leads Spain 43-42 at the half in a back-and-forth battle, as Konstantinos Mitoglou (19 pts, 5 3PM), goes off for a pulse-pounding performance.

Mitoglou attended Wake Forest University from 2014-17 before returning to Europe, where he won a 2024 Euroleague championship with Panathinaikos.

Spain is 32-11 lifetime against Greece, winning the last matchup at the 2024 Olympic Games. But we’re at the Telekom Center Athens, and the Hellas have won the last four games in the series on their home soil.

The Oklahoma City Thunder’s Aday Mara (7 pts on 2-for-2 shooting, 7 reb) is leading the way for La Roja, while the Dallas Mavericks’ Sergio De Larrea (9 pts, 3-for-3 3PM) tops them in scoring.

Spain has eight turnovers as they seek to adjust to a new generation of talents, including these two 2026 NBA Draft picks, as well as the LA Clippers’ Baba Miller, the No. 36 pick, who scored his first basket with the senior team.

AUGUST 31 / 12:35 p.m. ET

Lithuania leads Bosnia & Herzegovina at the half

Luka Garza (9 pts, 1 3PM) and Jusuf Nurkić (9 pts, 9-for-9 FTA) are leading the way for The Golden Lillies, but Lithuania’s earned a 42-40 lead at the half.

Augustas Marciulionis (10 pts, 3 ast), the son of Naismith Hall of Fame guard Šarūnas Marčiulionis, leads Lithuania in scoring.

These teams will be watching the Serbia-Italy matchup later today, as they seek to make a comeback in Group J.

AUGUST 31 / 12:19 p.m. ET

Hugo on the break

Greece has an early 13-8 lead over Spain, but Hugo González flashed a little of his ability by breaking away for this transition layup.

The Celtics will be looking to González to help replace Jaylen Brown’s production on the wing — keep an eye on the 20-year-old Spaniard.

AUGUST 31 / 11:26 a.m. ET

Jusuf Nurkić back at it

Fresh off an upset of Italy, Bosnia & Herzegovina is facing Lithuania in their last game of this qualifying round.

Keep an eye on the Bosnian center duo — NBA veterans Nurkić and Luka Garza are a load for anyone to handle.

Both these teams are 3-4, seeking a win to remain within shouting distance in Group J.

AUGUST 31 / 9:41 a.m. ET

China earns last-minute victory over Lebanon

China (5-3) is one game behind the leaders of Group F after pulling out an 89-87 win over Lebanon at home in the Xishi Basketball Center in Zhuji.

The game saw 18 lead changes and 11 ties, with Lebanon taking a lead into the fourth quarter.

The Trail Blazers’ Hansen Yang (19 pts, 9 reb, 2 ast) put in a good day’s work for Team Dragon, orchestrating the offense from the high post.

Yang put in a game-winning layup with 10 seconds remaining, sealing his defender and delivering on the block.

AUGUST 31 / 8:33 a.m. ET

Hachimura sparks Japan to win

Rui Hachimura (30 pts on 9-for-15 shooting, 6 reb, 4 ast) turned in another excellent performance as Japan dispatched Qatar 123-70.

The LA Clippers’ Yuki Kawamura (5 pts, 10 ast) also helped lead the Japanese offense in the triumph.

With the win, Akatsuki Japan (6-2) move into a tie at the top of Group F with Lebanon.

AUGUST 31 / 8:15 a.m. ET

The best from Sunday’s action

Kobi Simmons, who played for the Memphis Grizzlies, Cleveland Cavaliers, Charlotte Hornets and Toronto Raptors over a four-year NBA career, breaks out a little Magic Johnson for Côte d’Ivoire on the dime at No. 7.

AUGUST 30 / 4:37 p.m. ET

Sunday’s results

Sunday’s scores in Asian qualifying:

  • New Zealand 126, Syria 74
  • Australia 126, Jordan 93
  • Philippines 68, Iran 56

Sunday’s scores in African qualifying:

  • Nigeria 100, Cape Verde 84
  • Congo DR 77, Egypt 75
  • Guinea 90, Cameroon 67
  • Angola 91, Côte d’Ivoire 70
  • South Sudan 79, Tunisia 75
  • Senegal 97, Mali 71

Sunday’s scores in European qualifying:

  • Croatia 101, Netherlands 99
  • Germany 96, Poland 94
  • France 84, Sweden 69
  • Latvia 85, Israel 70
  • Finland 96, Estonia 67
  • Slovenia 92, Hungary 77

We’ll be back with another full slate tomorrow!

Nikola Jokić is expected to be in action as Serbia takes on Italy, and the USA faces Colombia in their second game of the window.

AUGUST 30 / 3:54 p.m. ET

South Sudan beats Tunisia in thriller

In a game that saw 20 lead changes and 11 ties, Carlik Jones (20 pts, 5 reb, 4 ast) scored the last four points to take a 79-75 win.

Yacine Toumi (24 pts) was the top scorer for Tunisia, tying the game with 37 seconds to go after scoring seven straight for The Eagles of Carthage before Jones took over.

Tunisia turned 10 turnovers by the Bright Stars into 18 points, but was outscored 20-5 in second chance points after giving up 18 offensive rebounds.

Majok Deng (16 pts, 11 reb) added a double-double for South Sudan, which moves into the No. 2 spot in Group E with the win at 7-2.

South Sudan reached its first FIBA World Cup in 2023, and is in good position to reach its second after today’s result.

AUGUST 30 / 2:48 p.m. ET

Tunisia leads South Sudan at the half

The Eagles of Carthage are up 42-40 over the Bright Stars in front of a home crowd in the Salle Multidisciplinaire de Radès.

Yacine Toumi and Firas Lahani (9 pts) are the top scorers for Tunisia, while Majok Deng (9 pts, 6 reb, 2 3PM) is the top man for South Sudan.

Toumi most recently played at the University of Hawaii, while Lahani won the 2022 Basketball Africa League championship with US Monastir.

Deng made the 2025 All-BAL First Team and BAL All-Defensive Second Team with Al Ittihad Alexandria and also plays in Australia’s National Basketball League for the Tasmania JackJumpers.

AUGUST 30 / 1:59 p.m. ET

Finland dominates Estonia

Lauri Markkanen (21 pts, 10 reb, 3 3PM) had his best performance of this qualifying round to help Finland to a decisive 96-67 win over Estonia.

After Sunday’s action, Finland moves up one game above Slovenia for second place in Group L.

AUGUST 30 / 1:37 p.m. ET

Guinea, Angola earn victories in African qualifying

Guinea moves into the No. 3 spot in Group E by upsetting Cameroon 90-67, which was previously undefeated in this qualifying window behind Yves Missi (11 pts, 10 reb), earlier today.

Elsewhere, Angola stayed in contention in Group F by defeating Côte d’Ivoire 91-70. The Black Antelopes had six double-figure scorers in the contest.

AUGUST 30 / 1:19 p.m. ET

France pulls away from Sweden

Victor Wembanyama (18 pts, 8 reb, 3 blk, 1 stl) and France took over in the fourth quarter to defeat Sweden 84-69, running their record to 7-1 and giving them undisputed claim at the top of Group L.

France had four players in double figures, including Sacramento Kings center Maxime Raynaud (13 pts) and former Trail Blazers and Thunder wing Jaylen Hoard (10 pts).

Pelle Larsson (23 pts), who previously became the first European player to score 30+ in back-to-back FIBA qualifier games, had another sterling performance for Sweden, showing off what he learned from ex-Heat superstar Jimmy Butler III with clinical midrange footwork and a 13-for-16 (81.3%) performance from the free throw line.

The game saw 15 lead changes and seven ties. It was tied with 5:04 remaining, but France ended on a 20-5 run to take the win.

AUGUST 30 / 12:20 p.m. ET

Sweden and France tied at the half

Pelle Larsson (18 pts, 10-for-12 FTA) and Victor Wembanyama (11 pts, 6 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk) are going at it, as Sweden and France find themselves tied at 38 after the first half in Stockholm.

A ridiculous jam here from Wemby from way underneath the basket.

AUGUST 30 / 11:57 a.m. ET

Alien sighting

Just a 7-foot-4 center hanging under the rim on the baseline and firing a one-handed baseball pass for an open 3-pointer — nothing major.

Sweden leads France 28-25 with 7:38 to go in the second quarter.

AUGUST 30 / 11:26 a.m. ET

Victor Wembanyama hits the court

France is getting ready to go against Sweden. Wemby’s in the starting lineup to face off with Pelle Larsson and The Blue and Yellow, who are seeking to stick with the contending pack in Group L in front of their home crowd in Stockholm’s Avicii Arena.

Catch The Alien and the Heat’s young wing on this Saturday morning!

AUGUST 30 / 11:20 a.m. ET

Germany wins an overtime struggle with Poland

Dennis Schröder (18 pts, 5 ast) and Germany survived overtime, handing Poland its first loss of FIBA World Cup 2027 qualifiers.

The Eagles came back with a 25-13 fourth quarter to force the extra period, but struggled to find quality looks late, as Schröder and Germany ground out enough points to seize the advantage.

Jordan Loyd (16 pts) was ejected in the second half, putting Mateusz Ponitka (20 pts) and Igor Miličić Jr. (18 pts, 8 reb), a member of the G League’s Delaware Blue Coats, in the spotlight for Poland.

With the win, Croatia is tied at the top of Group K with Poland and Germany.

AUGUST 30 / 10:31 a.m. ET

Croatia holds on to defeat the Netherlands

The Dutch had two chances to take the lead on the final possession, but Croatia managed to dodge the threat, winning 101-99 after making a 14-point comeback.

After trailing at the half, the Chequered Ones used a 32-19 third quarter to get back in the game. Indiana Pacers center Ivica Zubac (24 pts, 11 reb) and Dario Šarić (24 pts, 6 ast, 2 3PM) were their top performers.

Keye van der Vuurst (24 pts, 5 3PM) knocked down a 3-pointer in the final minute to cut the lead to two, but the Netherlands couldn’t score again as the intensity in front of their home crowd in the Topsportcentrum picked up.

With the win, Croatia (7-1) position themselves to move into a tie at the top of Group K, as undefeated Poland trails Germany in a close fourth-quarter battle.

AUGUST 30 / 10:06 a.m. ET

Croatia, Germany lead in European action

Ivica Zubac (17 pts, 7 reb) and Croatia are dueling with the Netherlands, up 79-76 as the fourth quarter gets underway.

Mario Hezonja (15 pts, 2 stl) and Dario Šarić (13 pts, 5 ast) are also contributing for The Chequered Ones, although David N’Guessan shifted some momentum with this slam.

Elsewhere in Europe, Germany has opened up a 55-48 lead over Poland with 4:53 left to go in the third quarter.

Dennis Schröder (5 pts, 5 ast) and Daniel Theis (7 pts) are in the lineup, while Jordan Loyd (14 pts), a 2019 NBA champion with the Toronto Raptors, is pacing the Polish squad.

AUGUST 30 / 9:58 a.m. ET

Nigeria defeats Cape Verde

Josh Okogie (15 pts, 8 reb, 10 ast, 4 stl) had his strongest game of the qualifying round when Nigeria needed it, lifting the D’Tigers to a 100-84 win over Cape Verde.

Cape Verde’s Ivan Almeida (34 pts), who attended Stonehill College in Massachusetts, led all scorers, but he was nearly matched by Caleb Agada (26 pts) of Nigeria, who won the 2025 Basketball Africa League championship with Al Ahli, earning first-team All-Defensive honors as well.

Nigeria led wire-to-wire, separating with a 23-9 first quarter and keeping their advantage with a deadeye performance from the 3-point line, shooting 15-for-33 (45.5%) from range.

Chimezie Metu (6 pts, 12 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl) chipped in around the edges as well, throwing down this poster slam.

AUGUST 30 / 9:14 a.m. ET

Kai Sotto and the Philippines complete perfect window

The Gilas took a 68-56 win over Iran to bring their record to 4-4, keeping them in the hunt for a berth in the FIBA World Cup 2027.

The 7-foot-3 Kai Sotto (13 pts, 16 reb, 3 ast) put together another dominant double-double. He’s a presence at the international level, tough to keep off the boards.

AUGUST 30 / 8:39 a.m. ET

Nigeria up early on Cape Verde

Josh Okogie (4 pts, 3 reb, 3 ast) is doing a bit of everything for the D’Tigers, who are looking to right the ship after going 0-2 so far in this qualifying window.

Nigeria needs a win in this battle between the teams at the bottom of Group E to have a real chance of qualifying for the FIBA World Cup 2027.

They’ve reached the competition three times in the country’s history, last in 2019.

Nigeria leads 36-18 with 5:50 to go in the second quarter.

AUGUST 29 / 5:04 p.m. ET

Saturday’s results

Saturday’s scores in African qualifying:

  • Côte d’Ivoire 72, Egypt 66
  • Mali 101, Congo DR 76
  • Senegal 84, Angola 82

We’ll be back with a full slate tomorrow! Victor Wembanyama and Dennis Schröder, among others, are expected to be in action.

AUGUST 29 / 4:50 p.m. ET

Senegal wins a back-and-forth contest

Brancou Badio (24 pts, 7 ast) knocked down the go-ahead 3-pointer with 41 seconds remaining as Senegal took an 84-82 win over Angola to cap Saturday’s action.

The game saw a whopping 21 lead changes and 16 ties, with neither team leading by more than six, as The Lions and The Black Antelopes battled at Dakar Arena.

Selton Miguel (25 pts on 9-for-15 shooting) was the top scorer for Angola. He was the AAC Sixth Man of the Year while playing for Maryland in 2024, earning second-team all-conference honors as well.

Angola, the 2025 AfroBasket champion, now drops behind Senegal in the Group F standings. The top two teams from Groups E and F advance to the FIBA World Cup, as well as the best third-place team.

At the moment, The Black Antelopes are in a battle with Egypt, Tunisia, Guinea and Nigeria for the wildcard spot.

AUGUST 29 / 3:59 p.m. ET

Gueye goes to the rack

The former Charlotte Hornets and Chicago Bulls player shows off his solid 6-foot-9 frame here, punching one down for Senegal.

AUGUST 29 / 2:27 p.m. ET

Mouhamadou Gueye leads Senegal against Angola

It’s a crucial contest in Group F, as the two remaining 5-2 teams face off, chasing Côte d’Ivoire and Mali, which both won earlier today.

Mo Gueye, who played two games for the Chicago Bulls last season, leads Senegal into action.

Senegal’s made five FIBA World Cups in their history, while Angola’s reached nine. Both appeared in 2023.

AUGUST 29 / 2:18 p.m. ET

Mali defeats the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Siriman Kanouté (15 pts on 4-for-4 shooting, 3 ast), who’s played for the Malian national team since he was 19, led his squad to a 101-76 win over the Congo DR.

Damion Baugh (19 pts, 3 3PM), who played for the Charlotte Hornets in 2024-25, was the top scorer for the Congo DR.

With the win, Mali moves into the No. 2 spot in Group F.

AUGUST 29 / 10:35 a.m. ET

The top 10 plays of this qualifying round so far

Check out Yves Missi flashing the handles at No. 3 and Neemias Queta’s footwork at No. 2 — some slick moves from two rising NBA centers.

AUGUST 29 / 10:24 a.m. ET

Côte d’Ivoire holds off Egypt

The Elephants (6-1) earned a 72-66 win to take the top spot in Group F, led by David Elle Gassaud (16 pts, 2 3PM), Jean Philippe Dally (16 pts) and Pacôme Dadiet (13 pts, 6 reb).

Egypt scored the last 10 points of the contest, but Côte d’Ivoire had already taken control with a 16-point lead — its largest of the game.

Côte d’Ivoire earned a 52-40 advantage on the glass and made nine 3-pointers to Egypt’s seven.

Angola, Mali and Senegal, all 5-2, are chasing Côte d’Ivoire, seeking to become one of the teams in the group to advance to the FIBA World Cup 2027.

AUGUST 29 / 9:00 a.m. ET

Dadiet rolling for Côte d’Ivoire

Pacôme Dadiet (7 pts on 3-for-5 shooting) is off to a hot start for Côte d’Ivoire as it takes an early lead over Egypt to open Saturday’s action.

The New York Knicks wing, who was selected No. 25 in the 2024 NBA Draft, represented France at the international level as a youth player before joining his brother, Maxence, on the Côte d’Ivoire squad.

The Elephants are up 17-16 with 7:52 to go in the second quarter.

AUGUST 29 / 8:15 a.m. ET

The top performances from Day 2

Watch highlights from Yves Missi, Goga Bitazde and Jusuf Nurkić, among others, and check in on how NBA players performed Friday.

AUGUST 28 / 5:29 p.m. ET

Friday’s results

Friday’s scores in Asian qualifying:

  • New Zealand 93, Iran 91
  • Australia 123, Syria 64
  • Philippines 82, Jordan 81

Friday’s scores in African qualifying:

  • South Sudan 82, Nigeria 79
  • Guinea 81, Cape Verde 61
  • Cameroon 83, Tunisia 61

Friday’s scores in European qualifying:

  • Georgia 101, Montenegro 74
  • Ukraine 82, Greece 76
  • Turkey 94, Lithuania 66
  • Serbia 102, Iceland 73
  • Bosnia & Herzegovina 78, Italy 76
  • Portugal 95, Spain 89

AUGUST 28 / 5:15 p.m. ET

Portugal defeats Spain to cap Friday’s action

Portugal defeated Spain 95-89 for the first time in the country’s basketball history, bringing them into competition in Group I.

Travante Williams (22 pts) was the top scorer for the Portuguese, buoyed by Diogo Ventura (17 pts), Neemias Queta (16 pts, 9 reb) and Ruben Prey (15 pts).

There were seven lead changes and eight ties, but Portugal separated in the fourth quarter and never looked back. They forced 19 turnovers, including 11 steals, earning 27 points off them.

Dario Brizuela (19 pts, four 3-pointers) was the top scorer for Spain.

AUGUST 28 / 4:56 p.m. ET

‘The crowd is silenced here’

Portugal has surged to an 87-78 lead with 3:24 to go in the game, putting a damper on the Spanish crowd as they take in this historic rivalry.

Diogo Ventura (17 pts) just knocked down a 3-pointer to bring a hush over the arena.

AUGUST 28 / 4:38 p.m. ET

Portugal and Spain tied after three

At 71-71, as these two European powers battle in front of an excited Spanish crowd.

Both these teams have lit it up from 3-point range — Spain is 13-for-22 (59.1%), while Portugal is 16-for-36 (44.4%).

Ruben Prey and Travante Williams (15 pts each) are the top scorers for Portugal; Alvaro Cardenas (15 pts) paces matters for Spain.

In his first senior team appearance, Aday Mara (8 pts, 4 reb, 4 ast) has wowed the crowd.

AUGUST 28 / 4:09 p.m. ET

Serbia, Cameroon, Turkey earn victories

Nikola Jović (21 pts) teamed with Nikola Jokić (6 pts, 13 reb, 6 ast) as Serbia (5-2) overwhelmed Iceland 102-73.

Cameroon (7-1) beat Tunisia 83-61, as Yves Missi (19 pts, 14 reb) continued his dominant run, maintaining a one-game lead over South Sudan in Group E.

Turkey ran away from Lithuania 94-66, as Cedi Osman (22 pts) showed off his scoring touch. They remain undefeated (7-0) at the top of Group J, with Serbia in second.

The day’s action concludes with Portugal and Spain, who are battling hard in the Pabellón Príncipe Felipe in Zaragosa midway through the third.

AUGUST 28 / 4:05 p.m. ET

Nurkić’s dominance lifts Bosnia & Herzegovina

Jusuf Nurkić (25 pts on 11-for-19 shooting, 14 rebounds) was a powerhouse as Bosnia & Herzegovina survived late to beat Italy 78-76, handing The Blues their second loss of World Cup qualifying.

Nurkić had seven fourth quarter points to seal the win. Boston Celtics center Luka Garza (10 pts, 7 reb in 15:49) aided his teammate in controlling the paint during the contest, forming a tremendous center duo.

Nico Mannion and Simone Fontecchio (14 pts each) led Italy.

AUGUST 28 / 3:56 p.m. ET

Portugal leads Spain at the half

47-41. Spain opened the quarter on a 15-3 run, but Portugal came back to seize a lead at the break.

Ruben Prey (10 pts, 2 3PM), Travante Williams (9 pts, 4 reb, 2 stl) and Neemias Queta (6 pts, 6 reb, 2 stl) have led the way, outdoing Joel Parra (10 pts), Aday Mara (5 pts, 3 reb, 2 blk) and Spain.

Spain is 7-for-14 (50%) from 3-point range, but Portgual has shot 9-for-24 (37.5%) to counter.

AUGUST 28 / 3:29 p.m. ET

Bosnia & Herzegovina chases upset of Italy

Jusuf Nurkić (12 pts, 10 reb) is within shouting distance of willing Bosnia & Herzegovina to a win over Italy, as the Dragons lead 58-54 after three.

Former Warriors guard Nico Mannion (14 pts, 5 ast) leads the way for the Italians.

Elsewhere, Nikola Jokić (6 pts, 11 reb, 5 ast) and Serbia lead Iceland 70-61 with a quarter remaining, while Cameroon and Turkey are up big.

Yves Missi (17 pts, 10 reb) is out here testing his range. Like Neemias Queta at Eurobasket 2025, he seems to be having a breakout on the international stage.

AUGUST 28 / 3:24 p.m. ET

Portugal leads Spain after one

21-14, as Ruben Prey (8 pts, 2 3PM), a junior at St. John’s University, starts off hot from distance.

Spain committed six first-quarter turnovers, looking uncertain as they seek to reestablish a pecking order after the retirement of a number of veterans, including Rudy Fernández.

Aday Mara (3 pts, 2 reb, 2 blk) was a force around the rim, particularly after Neemias Queta left the game for a rest.

AUGUST 28 / 2:52 p.m. ET

Halftime roundup

  • Serbia 52, Iceland 42
  • Turkey 55, Lithaunia 34
  • Bosnia & Herzegovina 34, Italy 27
  • Cameroon 37, Tunisia 26

Nikola Jokić (2 pts, 9 reb, 5 ast) is on triple-double watch; Jusuf Nurkić (10 pts, 8 reb) and Yves Missi (9 pts, 7 reb) are chasing double-doubles.

Spain-Portugal gets going at 3 p.m. ET to cap our slate for the day.

AUGUST 28 / 2:31 p.m. ET

Cedi started ready

Former Cleveland Cavaliers forward Cedi Osman is rolling to start Turkey’s battle with Lithuania. He’s got his team up 37-21 with 6:07 to go in the second quarter.

AUGUST 28 / 2:26 p.m. ET

Iceland up on Serbia after one

27-25, as Nikola Jokić (6 reb, 2 ast) started off cold from the field, but delivered this classic full-court dime to the Miami Heat’s Nikola Jovic (8 pts).

We had 10 lead changes and nine ties in the first quarter, as the teams battle to start the contest.

AUGUST 28 / 2:15 p.m. ET

The Joker graces the afternoon window

We’ve got five games featuring NBA talents going on this afternoon, led by Nikola Jokić and Serbia facing Iceland.

Italy features the Miami Heat’s Simone Fontecchio taking on Bosnia and Herzegovina, led by Jusuf Nurkić, while Yves Missi and Cameroon plays Tunisia.

Turkey, led by the Philadelphia 76ers’ Adem Bona, is battling Lithuania and Spain is preparing to face Portugal, as Boston Celtics teammates Hugo González and Neemias Queta square off.

Spain also features Aday Mara, Sergio de Larrea and Baba Miller, the No. 12, No. 25 and No. 36 picks in the 2026 NBA Draft, as well as former NBA players Juancho and Wily Hernangomez.

AUGUST 28 / 2:07 p.m. ET

Ukraine upsets Greece

82-76, giving them control of the No. 2 spot in Group I after Montenegro’s loss earlier today.

Ukraine went 13-for-33 (39.4%) from 3-point range on the day, including four from Max Shulga (14 pts).

The game saw nine lead changes and six ties, with Greece cutting the lead to four with 30 seconds remaining, but Ukraine held on.

The Official Beloved will regroup and seek to get veteran floor general Nick Calathes a berth in what could be his final FIBA World Cup.

AUGUST 28 / 1:30 p.m. ET

Ukraine up after three

64-55, as guards Oleksander Kolivar (18 pts, 6 reb), Svi Mykhailuk (13 pts) and Max Shulga (11 pts) spark the potential upset.

Ukraine entered the game as the No. 38 team in the world, while Greece was at No. 13, but they’ve played evenly today.

AUGUST 28 / 1:18 p.m. ET

Georgia defeats Montenegro

101-74, as Tornike Shengelia (24 pts) and Goga Bitadze (23 pts) led the way in a dominant showing in front of a thrilled home crowd.

Montenegro came into the game up on Georgia in the standings, but proved no match for the Crusaders.

“This Georgia team looks like one of the best in Europe right now,” said the announcer.

Sandro Mamukelashvili (17 pts, 7 reb, 6 ast) did a bit of everything, while Yogi Ferrell (12 pts, 4 ast) paced The Black Mountain.

Group I leader Spain plays later today, with Georgia hot on its heels.

AUGUST 28 / 1:09 p.m. ET

Ukraine up at the half

40-37, led by Svi Mykhailiuk (10 pts), while Nick Calathes (9 pts, 4 ast) is rolling for Greece.

That’ll be our featured contest after Georgia-Montenegro concludes, with the Crusaders up double-digits late.

AUGUST 28 / 12:52 p.m. ET

Georgia maintains the lead

77-67 Georgia after three, as the Crusaders build off an 11-3 advantage in turnovers.

Goga Bitadze (23 pts) dominated the third quarter, putting up 12 points, aided by Tornike Shengelia, who had 10 of his own.

Montenegro is out-shooting Georgia, knocking down 54% of their field goals, but it’s been outweighed by turnovers and 3-point shooting.

AUGUST 28 / 12:47 p.m. ET

‘Bitadze wanted all the smoke’

A powerful two-handed poster from the Magic big man, demonstrating a taste of his trademark aggression, off a daring feed by Sandro Mamukelashvili.

Georgia has a 68-59 lead with the third quarter winding down.

AUGUST 28 / 12:25 p.m. ET

Ukraine and Greece going at it

24-21 Ukraine with 5:19 to go in the second quarter, as the Utah Jazz’s Svi Mykhailiuk and former Boston Celtics guard Max Shulga face off with Kostas and Thanasis Antetokounmpo, as well as veteran point guard Nick Calathes, who played in the NBA for the Memphis Grizzlies.

Kostas Papanikolaou, who played for the Houston Rockets and Denver Nuggets in 2014-15 and 2015-16, and former Atlanta Hawk Tyler Dorsey, a talented scorer, are also featuring for Greece.

Calathes, 37, is a two-time All-Euroleague First Team member. He finished seventh in Kia Rookie of the Year voting while a Grizzly in 2013-14.

AUGUST 28 / 12:19 p.m. ET

Toko ends the half with a bang for Georgia

Tornike Shengelia (6 pts, 4 reb) knocked down a 3-pointer as the buzzer sounded, giving the Crusaders a 48-42 lead at the break.

Georgia’s 6-for-13 (46.2%) from distance so far in this contest.

Goga Bitadze (11 pts, 4 reb) and Sandro Mamukelashvili (9 pts, 5 reb) have tag-teamed to help them build their lead, overcoming a good performance from Yogi Ferrell (9 pts, 2 reb) and Milan Suskavcevic (4 pts, 6 reb), who averaged a double-double last season in Serbia.

We’ve got a fun one in the Otar Korkia and Nodar Jorjikia Tbilisi Sports Palace!

AUGUST 28 / 11:52 a.m. ET

Georgia leads after one

The Crusaders are up 27-17 after the first quarter, controlling the rim to the tune of a 12-2 advantage in points in the paint.

Goga Bitadze (10 pts, 2 3PM) has been a force so far, scoring inside and out.

AUGUST 28 / 11:30 a.m. ET

Georgia and Montenegro underway

Georgia (3-3) features new Los Angeles Laker Sandro Mamukelashvili, the Orlando Magic’s Goga Bitadze and former Brooklyn Net Tornike Shengelia, while Montenegro (4-2) boasts former Dallas Mavericks point guard Yogi Ferrell.

The Crusaders are seeking to stay alive in Group I, while The Black Mountain is currently part of a three-way tie for second place, chasing Spain (5-1).

AUGUST 28 / 10:36 a.m. ET

Sotto seals the win for the Philippines

Kai Sotto (18 pts, 14 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl) rejected a Jordanian drive at the buzzer to seal an 82-81 overtime win for the Philippines as the home fans went wild.

“That may be the block of the window,” said the announcer. “Sotto said ‘not in my house!'”

Jordan led by as many as 18 points early in the game, paced by Freddy Ibrahim (22 pts, 4 3PM) and former Toronto Raptors guard Jalen Harris (19 pts).

The Al-Nashama drop into a three-way tie with New Zealand and Iran for the No. 2 spot in Group E at 5-2, while the Philippines raises its record to 3-4.

AUGUST 28 / 10:12 a.m. ET

South Sudan holds on to beat Nigeria

Chimeze Metu (17 pts) tied it with just under two minutes to go for Nigeria, but South Sudan showed their depth and scored the last three points of the contest to win 64-61.

Marial Shayock (19 pts) and Carlik Jones (11 pts, 8 reb, 12 ast) were the main impetus for the Bright Stars, while Kur Kuath and former NBA talent JT Thor scored the final points to claim the victory.

Wenyen Gabriel (10 pts, 3 blk) lifted them early in the fourth quarter when both Shayock and Jones hit the bench.

Josh Okogie (14 pts, 8 reb) also had a strong game for Nigeria.

The game saw five lead changes and six ties.

AUGUST 28 / 9:36 a.m. ET

Shayok brings South Sudan back on top

64-61 entering the fourth quarter, as Marial Shayok (16 pts, 5 reb, 4 ast) and Carlik Jones (11 pts, 8 ast) control the game’s action.

Shayok scored eight straight points to open the third, including two 3-pointers, lifting South Sudan.

Chimezie Metu (14 pts on 6-for-12 shooting) is grinding his way to efficiency for the D’Tigers, keeping them in it as part of a group effort.

South Sudan’s seeking to hold on to the No. 2 spot in Group E with a win, while Nigeria needs a victory to stay with the pack.

AUGUST 28 / 9:11 a.m. ET

Kai Sotto and the Philippines battling

The 7-foot-3 center and the Gilas fell behind early against Jordan, but they’re racing to get back in the game.

AUGUST 28 / 8:59 a.m. ET

Nigeria rallies to lead at the half

The D’Tigers lead 46-43, boosted by a 30-19 advantage on the glass, including 12 offensive rebounds. They won the second quarter 27-13.

Josh Okogie (9 pts) is their top scorer, while Carlik Jones (9 pts, 4 ast) is the lead man for South Sudan. Former Philadelphia 76er Marial Shayok (8 pts) is also contributing for the Bright Stars.

AUGUST 28 / 8:44 a.m. ET

South Sudan leads Nigeria

The Bright Stars are up 37-32 with 4:13 to go in the second quarter, seeking to earn their second win of this qualifying round.

Lead guard Carlik Jones (7 pts, 3 ast), the 2023 G League Most Valuable Player, is keying their offense.

AUGUST 28 / 8:34 a.m. ET

The best performances from Thursday

Check out how NBA players performed in Thursday’s action, including a perfect performance from Japan’s Rui Hachimura.

AUGUST 28 / 8:21 a.m. ET

A poster from New Zealand

Shea Ili, a two-time NBL champion in Australia, has an old-fashioned one-handed throw down to open your Friday morning.

AUGUST 28 / 12:10 a.m. ET

Thursday’s results

Thursday’s scores in Americas qualifying:

  • USA 89, Chile 71
  • Canada 86, Panama 66
  • Dominican Republic 94, Brazil 90
  • Argentina 89, Puerto Rico 75
  • Bahamas 103, Uruguay 94
  • Mexico 112, Colombia 86

Thursday’s scores in European qualifying:

  • France 92, Slovakia 67
  • Germany 99, Netherlands 83
  • Sweden 86, Finland 81
  • Hungary 85, Estonia 67
  • Croatia 115, Latvia 80
  • Poland 106, Israel 86

Thursday’s scores in African qualifying:

  • South Sudan 81, Guinea 71
  • Angola 100, Democratic Republic of Congo 68
  • Cameroon 78, Nigeria 62
  • Côte d’Ivoire 83, Mali 77
  • Tunisia 60, Cape Verde 56
  • Egypt 76, Senegal 67

Thursday’s scores in Asian qualifying:

  • China 83, Qatar 57
  • Japan 106, Saudi Arabia 78
  • Lebanon 93, South Korea 74

AUGUST 27 / 11:39 p.m. ET

Oh, Canada!

Trae Bell-Haynes scored 18 points as Canada beat Panama 86-66 and improved to 7-0.

AUGUST 27 / 10:54 p.m. ET

Canada leads at the half

AUGUST 27 / 9:46 p.m. ET

Canada is underway

Canada, the last of the unbeaten teams in Group E or F, is underway against Panama.

AUGUST 27 / 9:38 p.m. ET

Back in the saddle again

The USA win, combined with a 94-90 loss by Brazil against Dominican Republic, lifted the USA (6-1) into a first-place tie with Brazil (6-1) at the top of the Group E standings.

AUGUST 27 / 9:16 p.m. ET

USA wins on the road

Cole Swider scored 19 points and USA earned an 89-71 win on the road against Chile on Thursday night.

USA will square off against Colombia next on Monday night in Washington, DC.

AUGUST 27 / 8:56 p.m. ET

Big W for Argentina

Gabriel Deck scored 23 points and hauled in six rebounds to lead Argentina to an 89-75 win over Puerto Rico.

AUGUST 27 / 8:52 p.m. ET

USA running away from Chile

The two teams endured a stoppage due to a scoreboard outage during the third quarter, but the game resumed and USA led 68-51 at the end of the third.

AUGUST 27 / 7:55 p.m. ET

USA 44, Chile 28 at the half

USA is firmly in control, shooting 17-for-29 from the floor and 5-for-8 from 3 in the first half.

Orlando Robinson II leads all scorers with 9 points, and Jaron Blossomgame has 7 points. Sebastian Herrera and Franco Morales both have 7 points for Chile.

AUGUST 27 / 7:35 p.m. ET

USA up big after 1st quarter

Orlando Robinson II leads USA with six points, and USA is up 23-8 over Chile at the end of the 1st quarter.

Team USA shot 9-for-14 from the field in the 1st quarter.

AUGUST 27 / 6:55 p.m. ET

USA and Chile on deck

USA (5-1) has a road game against Chile tipping off at 7:10 p.m. ET.

AUGUST 27 / 6:20 p.m. ET

Argentina and Puerto Rico square off

Jose Alvarado and Puerto Rico try to turn around their fortunes against a tough Argentina squad.

AUGUST 27 / 4:31 p.m. ET

Wemby leads France to win

Victor Wembanyama (22 pts, 9 reb) and France eased to a 92-67 victory over Slovenia to cap the afternoon window of action, lifting them to a Group L-best 6-1 record.

The Kings’ Maxime Raynaud (13 pts, 8 reb, 3 ast) chipped in as well.

AUGUST 27 / 4:12 p.m. ET

Mario shows his form

The No. 5 pick in the 2015 NBA Draft is back in the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and showed off the skill that brought him back in Croatia’s 115-80 win over Latvia.

AUGUST 27 / 3:55 p.m. ET

Schröder sparks Germany

Dennis Schröder (25 pts on 7-for-11 shooting) was the driving force behind Germany’s 99-83 win over the Netherlands, keeping them alive as they chase undefeated Poland in Group K.

The veteran’s quickness and craft stands out on the international stage, where he’s able to burst to the rim seemingly at will.

AUGUST 27 / 3:33 p.m. ET

One time for Rui Hachimura

AUGUST 27 / 3:15 p.m. ET

Alien sighting

Wemby’s up to 14 points for France. It may be the summer, but the Spurs’ superstar remains cool.

AUGUST 27 / 2:49 p.m. ET

Karlo to the rafters

The Croatian big man is a regular League Pass sensation. Textbook elevation on the reverse jam here.

AUGUST 27 / 2:30 p.m. ET

France tips off against Slovenia

The San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama leads France, along with the Kings’ Maxime Raynaud and the Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert, against Slovenia.

France also features longtime NBA scorer Evan Fournier and Timothe Luwawu-Cabarott, who formerly played for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Atlanta Hawks.

AUGUST 27 / 2:06 p.m. ET

Japan running away from Saudi Arabia

Akatsuki Japan is up 78-50 with 5:16 to go in the third quarter, sparked by the LA Clippers’ Rui Hachimura (27 pts on 10-for-10 shooting) and Yuki Kawamura (4 pts, 8 ast).

Hachimura, who also stepped up in the 2026 NBA Playoffs for the Los Angeles Lakers, has been a cut above the competition in this one, barely looking bothered en route to a perfect shooting performance.

AUGUST 27 / 1:55 p.m. ET

Croatia, Germany tipping off respective contests

NBA players in action during this window of games include Ivica Zubac of the Indiana Pacers, Mario Hezonja of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Karlo Matković of the New Orleans Pelicans, who lead Croatia against Lithuania, joined by former NBA talent Dario Šarić.

Germany boasts Dennis Schröder and the Orlando Magic’s Tristan Da Silva as they face the Netherlands, which is led by Rienk Mast, who showed out for the Pacers’ 2026 NBA Summer League squad in recent months.

AUGUST 27 / 1:45 p.m. ET

Hansen Yang is in the house

The Trail Blazers’ center starred for China as they beat Qatar 83-57, putting up 15 points and 9 rebounds, as well as this graceful slam.

AUGUST 27 / 1:35 p.m. ET

Sweden defeats Finland behind Larsson

Pelle Larsson (31 pts, 5 reb) led the Swedish team to a 86-81 win over Lauri Markkanen (11 pts, 2 3PM) and Finland, slashing to the rim repeatedly to spur his squad.

Larsson, who started 54 games for the Heat last season, shot 9-for-17 from the field and 11-for-14 from the free throw line in the win.

AUGUST 27 / 1:10 p.m. ET

Côte d’Ivoire and Mali going down to the wire

Los Éléphants are led by the New York Knicks’ Pacôme Dadiet (6 pts), who is making his senior international debut after representing France as a youth.

67-65 Côte d’Ivoire with just over four minutes left.

AUGUST 27 / 12:50 p.m. ET

Missi leads Cameroon to win

Yves Missi (24 pts, 9 reb, 4 blk) put on one of the standout performances of the day to pace Cameroon to a 78-62 win over Nigeria.

The former NBA All-Rookie Second Team member in 2025 was too much for the D’Tigers, controlling the paint and helping hold Nigeria to 24% shooting.

Cameroon (6-1) maintains the top spot in Group E as the country seeks its first FIBA World Cup berth.

AUGUST 27 / 12:42 p.m. ET

Finland and Sweden dueling

49-46 Finland with 6:15 to go in the third quarter, but Pelle Larsson (14 pts) has outdone Lauri Markkanen (4 pts) so far in a battle of NBA wings.

Sweden also features former Detroit Pistons wing Bobi Klintman, who was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft.

A classic Heat attack to the rack for this finish.

AUGUST 27 / 11:30 a.m. ET

‘His royal airiness, the King of Cameroon’

Yves Missi (11 pts, 4 reb) just went thundering down the baseline to throw down a huge one-handed poster dunk over Ebeka Izundu, a former Miami Hurricane who now plays in Serbia.

Missi has been dominant so far, bringing Cameroon to a 32-22 lead with 5:11 left to go in the second quarter.

AUGUST 27 / 11:09 a.m. ET

Okogie flying around for Nigeria

Josh Okogie, now of the Utah Jazz, is showing his trademark hustle for Nigeria as they get rolling against Cameroon, grabbing three of the first five rebounds in the contest.

Okogie (2 pts, 3 reb, 2 ast) has made his name as a energy player in the NBA.

Nigeria also features former Sacramento King Chimezie Metu and former Jazz player Udoka Azubuike, a first-round pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.

The Pelicans’ Yves Missi (9 pts) is pacing the offense for Cameroon, flashing his touch from the midrange a moment ago.

15-11 Cameroon with 3:00 to go in the first quarter.

AUGUST 27 / 10:50 a.m. ET

Jones, Gabriel show out for South Sudan in victory

Carlik Jones, the 2022-23 G League Most Valuable Player and a former member of the Dallas Mavericks and Chicago Bulls, led South Sudan with 18 points in their 81-71 victory over Guinea to open the day’s action.

Jones put up 26.1 ppg in his MVP season for the Windy City Bulls, and now plays professionally in Serbia.

Wenyen Gabriel, who played in 150 NBA games over five seasons, topped South Sudan in rebounding with 12. He’s always been a physical presence on the glass.

AUGUST 27 / 9:00 a.m. ET

The competition is set to begin…

Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony gets us set for this qualifying round for the 2027 FIBA World Cup.

Watch live on Courtside 1891 via DAZN.

AUGUST 26 / 4:30 p.m. ET

Stars about to shine

NBA.com Jeff Zillgitt a look at the players to watch in the FIBA World Cup qualifying games, which include the San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama, Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokić, the Philadelphia 76ers’ VJ Edgecombe, the Utah Jazz’s Lauri Markkanen and the Charlotte Hornets’ Dennis Schröder.

AUGUST 26 / 4:15 p.m. ET

The Germans are your reigning champions

Germany won the 2023 FIBA World Cup, as well as the 2025 Eurobasket tournament.

Both times, they were led by Dennis Schröder, one of the most accomplished international players of the modern day. He was named Most Valuable Player of both events.

AUGUST 26 / 4:00 p.m. ET

Look back at the 2023 FIBA World Cup

We’ve got deep archival coverage of the 2023 FIBA World Cup for you to peruse before this year’s qualifiers, including day-by-day recaps and highlights of the top stars.

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