Basketball World Cup in Berlin will take place without Satou Sabally

The Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin will take place without Satou Sabally, one of Germany’s most promising players. The 28-year-old forward from the New York Liberty announced her absence via Instagram, expressing deep disappointment over missing the tournament. “It is incredibly hard for me to tell you I won’t be there,” she wrote. “I have worked tirelessly for years and gave everything.” For Sabally, playing in her home city was meant to be a career-defining moment, but her plans were dashed due to ongoing effects of a concussion. Sabally has not played since June 24, following a second concussion within a short period. Earlier in October 2025, while with the Phoenix Mercury, she suffered another head injury during the WNBA Finals. In her post, she emphasized the need to prioritize her health and focus entirely on recovery. “I must listen to my body and put my well-being first,” she stated. Germany’s team, which includes Sabally, had been considered strong contenders for a medal at the World Cup, held in Berlin from September 4 to 13. The squad’s chances were bolstered by their home advantage and recent successes. At the 2024 Olympics in Paris, they made history by qualifying for the Games for the first time and reaching the quarterfinals. At the 2025 European Championship, the team secured fifth place, further raising expectations ahead of the World Cup. However, Sabally is not the only player facing uncertainty. Her younger sister, Nyara Sabally, who plays for the Toronto Raptors in the WNBA, is also sidelined due to a calf injury. She has missed several games and is unlikely to participate in the World Cup, though a complete withdrawal has not yet been confirmed. Similarly, Leonie Fiebich, another key member of the German squad, is currently sidelined due to ankle issues. A wing player with the New York Liberty, Fiebich last appeared on court in early July and may still have a chance to return in time for the tournament. The German women’s basketball team, known for its strong performances in international competitions, faces a challenging situation with multiple key players unavailable. While the absence of Sabally and others could impact their prospects, the team will rely on depth and experience to navigate the competition. The World Cup represents a crucial opportunity for the squad to build on past achievements and establish itself as a top-tier force in global basketball. With the tournament just weeks away, the focus shifts to how the German team can adapt to these setbacks. The players who remain healthy will need to step up and carry the weight of the nation’s hopes. As preparations continue, the outcome of this World Cup will depend not only on individual performance but also on the resilience and unity of the entire team.