Berlin – September 09, 2026 -- Germany's women's basketball team defeated Japan 74:58 in a sold-out Max-Schmeling-Halle, securing its first win of the World Cup after an opening loss to Spain. The victory sets up a decisive final group match against Mali on Monday at 5:20 p.m., broadcast live on MagentaSport.
Forward Nyara Sabally, who grew up in Berlin and trained in the same arena, scored 18 points. "It was really cool, the arena is loud," she said, adding that the team was "logged in" from the start of the game.
Frieda Bühner scores 19 points to earn MVP honors
Bühner led all German scorers with 19 points and was named player of the match. She said the team shook off frustration from the Spain loss overnight and "woke up this morning with a clear head," crediting improved ball movement and interior play for opening up scoring chances.
Head coach Olaf Lange points to defense as the turning point
Bundestrainer Olaf Lange said the team's fighting spirit and defensive commitment laid the foundation for the win, particularly one-on-one defense against a smaller, faster Japanese roster. He singled out point guard Leonie Fieblich for her leadership and calming presence on court, calling her indispensable to the team.
Team plays without Alexis Peterson-Small due to illness
DBB vice president Mithat Demirel said guard Alexis Peterson-Small was too weak to play because of an infection that began the previous evening. "We make do with those who are there," he said, adding that the team's composed response after the Spain defeat exceeded his expectations.
MagentaSport analyst calls it a mental and physical breakthrough
MagentaSport expert Ireti Amojo described the game as the most important of the group phase, saying the players had to overcome the “hangover” of the Spain loss both mentally and physically over 40 minutes against a fast, physical Japanese side. Fans stayed on their feet cheering after the final buzzer.
Germany now faces Mali, who defeated Spain earlier in the tournament, in Monday's decisive group finale.