Las Vegas Aces guard Mai Yamamoto will represent Japan at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 in Berlin. She earned her spot as the country finalized its 12-player roster Thursday, ahead of the tournament's September tip-off.
Las Vegas Aces Guard Mai Yamamoto Headlines FIBA World Cup Roster
Since signing with the Aces in mid-July, Yamamoto has averaged 5.8 points per game while shooting 45.5% from 3-point range. That kind of efficiency should serve her well on the international stage, where floor spacing can decide games.
However, she won't shoulder the load alone.
Experience Carries Japan to 2026 FIBA Tournament in Berlin
Veteran guard Rui Machida and forward Maki Takada anchor the squad, while Kokoro Tanaka, a breakout performer at the 2025 FIBA Women's Asia Cup, adds another dynamic piece to the lineup. Japan drew Germany, Spain, and Mali in early Group A play.
The stakes stretch well beyond Berlin, too. Japan was recently named host of the 2030 Women's Basketball World Cup, and a deep run at the FIBA World Cup this September could build early momentum for that home tournament.
For Yamamoto, it also doubles as a chance to showcase her WNBA-caliber game on the global stage.
