Turkey Women opened their European Women’s Basketball Championship Qualifier campaign with a convincing 79–62 home victory over Montenegro Women on November 12, 2026. Turkey used a balanced offensive attack and a decisive third-quarter run to pull away, securing an important result in the qualifying table.

Game Overview

Turkey controlled the game from the opening quarter, establishing an inside presence while mixing in perimeter shooting to keep Montenegro’s defense off balance. The hosts led 38–31 at halftime, then delivered the knockout stretch early in the third quarter. A flurry of defensive stops and quick baskets pushed the advantage into double digits, and Montenegro never recovered.

The 79–62 final score reflected Turkey’s depth and composure. The hosts moved the ball well, attacked the offensive glass, and limited Montenegro’s second-chance opportunities. Montenegro competed hard and found some success in the paint, but Turkey’s defensive pressure and transition scoring proved decisive.

Key Moments

The turning point came at the start of the second half. Turkey opened the third quarter with a sustained run, forcing turnovers and converting them into easy points. A corner three and a fast-break layup capped the surge, pushing the lead to 17 and forcing Montenegro to call timeout. The visitors briefly steadied themselves, but Turkey answered every mini-run with timely shot-making.

In the fourth quarter, Turkey managed the game expertly, slowing the tempo when needed and drawing fouls to protect the lead. Montenegro continued to battle on the boards, but the hosts’ defensive discipline and free-throw shooting closed out the win.

Tactical Breakdown

Turkey’s defense was built on pressure at the point of attack and active help rotations. The hosts forced Montenegro into contested shots and limited clean looks from beyond the arc. Offensively, Turkey emphasized ball movement, post touches, and dribble penetration to collapse the defense.

• Third-quarter defense: Turkey’s stops fueled the decisive run and changed the game’s momentum.
• Inside-out offense: Post touches created open perimeter shots and driving lanes.
• Bench energy: Turkey’s reserves maintained intensity and contributed key minutes.

Standout Performers

Turkey’s guards controlled the tempo and applied consistent defensive pressure, while the frontcourt battled on the glass and finished efficiently around the rim. The hosts’ balanced scoring made it difficult for Montenegro to focus on one player. Montenegro’s interior players worked hard to create second chances, but the visitors’ perimeter shooting never found a consistent rhythm.

What It Means

The win gives Turkey a strong start in the European Women’s Basketball Championship Qualifier and strengthens their position in the push for a place at the final tournament. The performance showed depth, defensive intensity, and the ability to close out a quality opponent. Montenegro will look to regroup, improve its ball security, and find more consistent outside shooting in the next qualifying window.

With the 79–62 result, Turkey Women made an early statement in the qualifying standings. Their final score, third-quarter surge, and balanced attack made this a complete team performance.