The FIBA website has listed the top 20 female athletes to watch in the upcoming Paris Olympics basketball events. Chinese bigs Han Xu and Li Yueru, both key players on the national team, have made it onto the list, alongside five American athletes. Spain and Serbia, fellow competitors of the Chinese women’s team, each have one representative on the list.
Li Yueru
If China is to replicate its magical performance from the 2022 Women’s World Cup, Li Yueru could be a crucial factor. Her teammate Han Xu usually garners most of the fan attention, but her impressive double-double figures at the Xian Olympic Qualification Tournament showcased her strength. Before the Olympics, the Chinese women’s team struggled, but with Li Yueru’s return, she can provide significant support through her excellent post moves and defensive skills. Additionally, her experience from overseas leagues will also benefit the team.
Han Xu
As a signature player for the Chinese women’s team, Han Xu is beloved by fans, always sporting a smile as she performs brilliantly on the court. It would be unbelievable if this towering center were not a team leader and a star in the Paris Olympics. Han Xu was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2023 Women’s Asian Cup and helped China secure a silver medal at the World Cup. Due to her teammates’ injuries, Han Xu has been heavily preparing for months, hoping to have enough energy to once again lead China to the podium.
FIBA’s review of the top 20 female basketball athletes to watch in the Olympics:
20. Nigeria – Akuwue
19. Serbia – Anderson
18. Belgium – Armstrong
17. Australia – Lauren Jackson
16. USA – Taurasi
15. Spain – Torres
14. Germany – Sabali
13. France – Gabi Williams
12. Japan – Miki Kitaoka
11. USA – Gray
10. USA – Wilson
9. Germany – Fehling
8. Japan – Mai Yamamoto
7. Belgium – Meeseman
6. China – Li Yueru
5. France – Johannes
4. USA – Coley
3. Australia – Magbegor
2. China – Han Xu
1. USA – Stewart