Will host nation Hungary get a red-hot start in Group B?
SOPRON (FIBA U18 Women’s European Championship 2017) – We check in with Group B of the FIBA U18 Women’s European Championship 2017 as Hungary look for a red-hot start as they eye up the podium.
SOPRON (FIBA U18 Women's European Championship 2017) – We check in with Group B of the FIBA U18 Women's European Championship 2017 as Hungary look for a hot start as they eye up the podium.
Players to Watch: The often exquisite play of forward Dorka Juhasz will be the centerpiece and there is also likely to be nice all-action contributions from Livia Gereben.
Outlook: Hungary were 5th last year and qualified for the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup which many of the participants completed last weekend in Udine. With that experience and assuming fatigue isn't an issue, such preparation assumes they will be equipped to push for the podium again.
Players to Watch: Janeta Rozentale has also been to the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup and she shot more than 50 percent and is in great form. Aleksa Gulbe was superb last year with the U16 team and almost secured a tournament double-double, so she could shine.
Outlook: Making the Semi-Finals like last year but without someone like the inspirational Digna Strautmane on the roster will be tough, yet Latvian women's basketball is on the rise so they can't be discounted making an impression again.
Players to Watch: Both Ismini Prapa and Eirini Kouki were part of last year's promotion side and are very solid contributors who will provide the backbone again.
Outlook: It is likely to be a tough assignment for Greece as they hope to avoid falling back through the Division B trap-door, but the draw has given them a good shot at survival - or maybe more.
Players to Watch: Meltem Yildizhan and Ilayda Guner are a good combination in the paint and will give their country a solid frontcourt platform. The former has nice athleticism and Guner has strength and a nice touch.
Outlook: After the U20 team suffered relegation last month in Matosinhos, the U18 side will want to restore some pride and even if that is just staying in the top flight - let alone going any further. Especially Guner who was part of that disappointment.
FIBA