ExplainerParis Olympics: what to know and who to watch out for in women’s basketball
- The Americans have not lost a game since the 1992 Olympics and bring an impressive frontcourt, but China, Japan and the hosts will have a say
Women’s basketball at the Olympics has been a battle for silver and bronze since 1992, which was the last time the Americans lost.
There seems little reason to believe this summer’s tournament in Paris will be any different, although China’s second place at the World Cup in 2022 might give them reason to dream.
Athletes to watch
Lauren Jackson (Australia): Returned to international play at the 2022 World Cup to lead the Opals to the bronze medal. The 43-year-old three-time WNBA MVP has not played in the Olympics since 2012 because of injuries. Jackson has three silver medals (2000, 2004, 2008) and one bronze (2012).
Satou Sabally (Germany): Helped Germany qualify for their first Olympics and is one of the top young players in the WNBA, where she plays for the Dallas Wings.
A’ja Wilson (United States): One of the top faces of the tournament, Wilson has been a winner everywhere she has played, winning an NCAA title at South Carolina, two WNBA championships with the Las Vegas Aces and Olympic gold in Tokyo.
Emma Meesseman (Belgium): Helped Belgium reach the quarter-finals at Tokyo three years ago.