Japan's 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup run ended Tuesday, but WNBA fans, specifically Golden State Valkyries fans, should be thrilled with what they saw.
Hungary defeated Japan, 84-63, to advance to the quarterfinal round. It was a disappointing way for Japan's tournament to end after a thrilling start. However, questions around Kokoro Tanaka could start to be asked.
Golden State selected Tanaka in the third round of the 2026 WNBA Draft. She didn't play in the league this year due to international commitments.
That focus paid dividends in the FIBA World Cup, where the 20-year-old averaged 14.8 points per game and was top-three in the tournament in scoring with 59 points heading into the quarterfinal round.
With her World Cup run over, the next big question will be how her game can translate to the WNBA.
Tanaka could be a dynamic two-way guard
Throughout Japan's run, Tanaka served as one of her team's creators. She was asked to help set up her teammates, but her primary goal was to be a scorer. She did so by attacking the basket and breaking down the defense.
Tanaka shot 28% from three in the FIBA World Cup, but she's shown flashes of being an average 3-point shooter. That trait will be key in making Natalie Nakase's squad.
Those evaluations will be key to a potentially transformative offseason. Tiffany Hayes will be a free agent, and it would not be surprising if teams try to poach Kaitlyn Chen or Kalia Charles.
It's what made the Flau'jae Johnson trade a peculiar decision at the time, but the rookie could be better off with the Seattle Storm, and the Valkyries seemed to be comfortable playing the long game.
If Tanaka's ability to be a playmaker and an efficient scorer translates to the WNBA, that would make things easier for the front office. It also would help Nakase maintain her system and better manage Veronica Burton's and Gabby Williams' minutes.
Tanaka developing into at least an average 3-point shooter would also provide the lineup versatility that Nakase excels at.
The big thing for Tanaka to remain on the Valkyries is how she can hold up defensively. She's a bit undersized at 5-foot-8, but what stood out during the FIBA World Cup is that she is a willing and high IQ defender.
Tanaka did well to cut off lanes and brought strong effort to compensate for her smaller frame. That is something Nakase can work on and something she will be keeping an eye on next season.
International players made a significant impact in the WNBA this season, and this year's FIBA World Cup showed that there will be plenty more talent coming in future seasons.
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