BERLIN -- The quarterfinals are set for the 2026 FIBA World Cup, with eight teams still in the hunt for a spot on the podium in Germany this weekend. The United States, France and Belgium are the only countries still undefeated, though Italy tested the U.S. women in their second group game. The Americans eked out a 55-52 victory, their lowest-scoring World Cup performance since 1971.

Those three teams, along with Spain (2-1), punched their tickets to Thursday's quarterfinals. On Tuesday, Hungary beat Japan and Germany topped Korea to also secure spots in the final eight. On Wednesday, China secured its quarterfinal berth with a win over Puerto Rico, and the final spot went to Australia, which held off Italy in the final qualification showdown.

In what areas has Team USA been most impressive? As is the case with other U.S. women's teams, the depth of talent continues to stand out. Coach Kara Lawson has started the five returning senior team players -- Napheesa Collier, Kahleah Copper, Chelsea Gray, Breanna Stewart and Jackie Young -- each game this tournament, meaning the likes of Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, Aliyah Boston and Angel Reese are coming off the bench.

Where have the Americans struggled? The U.S. women's efficiency in this tournament has been much lower than we're used to seeing: 43.4%, ranking eighth, and a 29% accuracy from the 3-point arc (11th in the field). This is where not having A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum really hurts. With no Diana Taurasi or Wilson around, that's Stewart's or Gray's role moving forward.