The 2025 FIBA Women’s EuroBasket has officially tipped off, and this year’s tournament is making headlines for more than just its fierce competition. With a record number of current WNBA stars temporarily leaving their teams to represent their home countries, EuroBasket 2025 promises to deliver world-class basketball and shake up both the European and WNBA seasons. Fans across continents are eagerly watching as elite talent takes center stage, highlighting the growing global influence of women’s basketball.
WNBA Stars Bring Global Spotlight to EuroBasket
Who’s Playing and What’s at Stake?
This summer, nine current WNBA players have put their league seasons on pause to compete for their national teams in EuroBasket, joining a host of others with WNBA experience. Their participation not only boosts their teams’ chances but also draws international attention to the tournament.
Key WNBA Players at EuroBasket 2025:
- Leonie Fiebich (New York Liberty) – Germany
- Janelle Salaün (Golden State Valkyries) – France
- Julie Vanloo (Golden State Valkyries) – Belgium
- Julie Allemand (Los Angeles Sparks) – Belgium
- Jessica Shepard (Minnesota Lynx) – Slovenia
- Temi Fágbénlé (Golden State Valkyries) – Great Britain
- Cecilia Zandalasini (Golden State Valkyries) – Italy
- Luisa Geiselsöder (Dallas Wings) – Germany
- Teaira McCowan (Dallas Wings) – Turkey
The tournament features 16 European nations, including powerhouses like France, Spain, Belgium, and Serbia. This year, EuroBasket serves as a qualifier for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, with the top six teams earning coveted spots. Germany, as the host for the World Cup, is already guaranteed a place.
Where Is EuroBasket 2025 Being Played?
This year’s EuroBasket is unique in its scope, with games hosted across four countries: Czechia, Germany, Italy, and Greece. The final phase will be held entirely in Greece, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
The WNBA’s Balancing Act: Club vs. Country
How Teams Are Coping with Player Absences
The exodus of stars to EuroBasket has forced WNBA teams to adapt quickly. Teams like the Golden State Valkyries are especially impacted, with as many as four key players representing their nations. To fill roster gaps, WNBA franchises are signing players to short-term contracts and shuffling lineups.
Impacts on WNBA Teams:
- Rosters stretched thin, leading to more short-term signings.
- Potential for missed games ranges from 6 to 10 per player, depending on national team progress.
- Teams must quickly reintegrate returning players after the tournament, per WNBA’s CBA rules.
Not Every Star Is Leaving
While many WNBA players are embracing the chance to represent their countries, some have chosen to stay stateside and continue their league campaigns. Notable absentees from EuroBasket include Gabby Williams (Seattle Storm), Marine Johannès (New York Liberty), and Satou Sabally (Phoenix Mercury), each opting to prioritize their WNBA commitments.
Why EuroBasket 2025 Matters
Raising the Bar for Women’s Basketball
The influx of WNBA talent raises the level of play and visibility for EuroBasket. Fans get to see some of the world’s best athletes go head-to-head in high-stakes international games, and young players across Europe are inspired by these role models.
Key Storylines to Watch
- Which WNBA stars will lead their teams deep into the tournament?
- How will WNBA teams adapt during their players’ absences?
- Can emerging European talents seize the spotlight alongside established stars?
FAQs
1. Which WNBA players are competing in FIBA EuroBasket 2025?
Nine current WNBA players, including Leonie Fiebich, Janelle Salaün, Julie Vanloo, Julie Allemand, Jessica Shepard, Temi Fágbénlé, Cecilia Zandalasini, Luisa Geiselsöder, and Teaira McCowan, are representing their European national teams.
2. Why are WNBA players leaving their teams for EuroBasket?
EuroBasket is a major international tournament and a qualifier for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. Many players prioritize representing their countries, even if it means missing WNBA games.
3. How does EuroBasket affect the WNBA season?
Teams lose key players for up to 10 games, leading to more short-term signings and lineup changes. Teams must quickly adjust and then reintegrate returning stars after the tournament.
4. Which countries are hosting EuroBasket 2025?
EuroBasket 2025 is being held in Czechia, Germany, Italy, and Greece, with the final rounds taking place in Greece.
5. Does every WNBA player from Europe participate in EuroBasket?
No, some players, like Gabby Williams and Marine Johannès, have chosen to remain with their WNBA teams instead of joining their national squads.
Conclusion
FIBA EuroBasket 2025 is off to a thrilling start, with WNBA stars headlining European teams and elevating the tournament’s intensity and global appeal. As these elite athletes chase continental glory and World Cup qualification, both European basketball and the WNBA are feeling the impact. Whether you’re a fan of the WNBA, EuroBasket, or just great basketball, this summer’s action is not to be missed.
