By Javier Molero/ jmolero@eurohoops.net
Real Madrid center Walter Tavares is set to make his return to international basketball after being named to Cape Verde’s roster for the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Qualifiers.
The defensive anchor, a critical piece for both club and country, has been sidelined since late April following a serious knee injury suffered in the opener of the EuroLeague Playoffs 2026 against Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv. His inclusion in the national squad marks a major step forward in his rehabilitation process. The Cape Verdean giant went on to sit out the 2026 EuroLeague Final Four Athens, presented by Etihad, and the Liga Endesa Playoffs 2026 due to a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee. Despite initial concerns regarding his recovery timeline and eventual form, his presence on the official team list confirms he will participate in the critical FIBA windows scheduled for July and August.
The 34-year-old center remains the undisputed focal point for the Blue Sharks. Currently sitting at a 2–1 record in Group A of the African Qualifiers, Cape Verde is on the verge of clinching a berth in the next round, which would see them advance to Group E for a new six-game schedule toward Qatar. His return provides a huge boost to the national team as they look to solidify this positioning and secure a spot for next summer’s global tournament.
Beyond the immediate benefit to his country, these competitive summer matchups offer the dominant center an ideal platform to regain his rhythm and conditioning. Facing top-tier international competition will allow him to test his knee under true game conditions before reporting back to club duties under the command of Madrid head coach Sergio Scariolo.
Make 
Your Preferred Basketball Source.
Add Eurohoops to Google