Czech Republic ready to meet expectations; hosts last team to reveal roster
HRADEC KRALOVE (FIBA EuroBasket Women 2017) - Czech Republic have confirmed the 12 players who will carry the Final Round hopes of the host nation as they try to feed off the energy of the home fans.
HRADEC KRALOVE (FIBA EuroBasket Women 2017) - Czech Republic have confirmed the 12 players who will carry the Final Round hopes of the host nation as they try to feed off the energy of the expectant home fans.
After an indifferent preparation program, Ivan Benes and his team will be looking to shift up a gear when Group A swings into action.
| Czech Republic roster for FIBA EuroBasket Women 2017 | |||
| Kia Vaughn | Michaela Stejskalova | Karolina Elhotova | Alena Hanusova |
| Ilona Burgrova | Lenka Bartakova | Veronika Vorackova | Karelina Elhotova |
| Tereza Vyoralova | Petra Kulichova | Petra Zaplatova | Pavla Svrdlikova |
Faced with an opening game against Ukraine, as well as match-ups with Hungary and Spain, the Czech side will lean heavily on the offensive production of Katerina Elhotova, Kia Vaughn and Michaela Stejskalova.
Elhotova returned from maternity leave earlier this year and has the ability to take the game away from opponents with her sensational shooting ability. Meanwhile, if Stejskalova can re-discover her own shooting touch from the wing, then the hosts might turn out to be hugely competitive.
A lot will depend on how their frontcourt rotation pans out and it will be led by the naturalized center, Kia Vaughn. A former EuroLeague Women MVP and proven WNBA performer, her strength under the hoop will be a nice addition, along with the returning Petra Kulichova who has vast experience - as does veteran warrior, Ilona Burgrova.
There is also an opportunity for Alena Hanusova to cement herself as a leader if she can utilize her athleticism and put some points on the board.
FIBA