Rupert headlines All-Star Five by scooping MVP award

BOURGES (FIBA U16 Women's European Championship 2017) - Iliana Rupert had a double cause for celebration after adding the MVP accolade to her gold medal at the FIBA U16 Women's European Championship 2017.

The France powerhouse received the gong after a string of top level displays for the jubilant hosts, racking up 18 points and 10 boards in the 63-55 Final success against Hungary.

She was joined in the prestigious line-up by shooting ace Zoe Wadoux, who sunk 22 points in the title game and was a constant menace throughout the competition from downtown.

Hungary's Reka Dombai was also rewarded for her efforts in propelling Hungary to silver and their first Final since 1976.

Italy won their second bronze in three editions and their run to the Third Place game was largely fuelled by the stellar talented and exciting Ilaria Panzera. She missed out on the podium in Udine last year, but gets the added excitement of personal recognition on top of her medal.

Finally, Germany were left distraught that they were edged out by Spain in the race to take the last pass to the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup 2018, but there was some consolation for Emily Bessoir. After a huge tournament double-double, she was handed the last berth in the All-Star Five.

From left to right: Valerie Garnier, coach of France's senior women's national team, Emily Bessoir (GER), Ilaria Panzera (ITA), Zoe Wadoux (FRA), Reka Dombai (HUN), Iliana Rupert (FRA) and FIBA U16 Women's European Championship 2017 Crew Chief Commissioner Ulf Ohrmann.

FIBA