3x3 star Aho mixes it up with Hungary

MATOSINHOS (FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship) – A standout in 3x3, Nina Aho is looking to translate her success to the full version of the game at the FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship in Matosinhos.

After making a splash at the FIBA 3x3 U18 Europe Cup two years ago, winning the gold medal in overtime for Hungary and once climbing up to #1 overall in the World Ranking, Aho is ready to show she can manoeuvre successfully between both versions of the sport.

"That was the best moment in my life," smiled the guard, as she reflected on an incredible memory from an exhilarating night in Minsk.

"I would love to re-live it in another tournament, if you know what I mean. And, I'll do my best to help my team and make this last tournament, with this team in Matosinhos, a memorable one."

While her focus is quite rightly on taking Hungary on a deep run at the FIBA U20 Women's European Championship, her eyes light up at any talk of 3x3, even if being Stateside at Duquesne has limited her ability to play it as much as she would like of late.

She explained: "I love it because it's just so much fun and honestly, I miss it a lot because I study in America and it is hard to participate in tournaments during the season.

"The new Olympic status makes everyone crazy about it as every basketball player wants to go. They see more possibility in this sport than in traditional basketball, and especially for smaller countries, but I hope I will get there one day.

"3x3 helps a lot. It gives you confidence, and you can improve your game. For me, it is not hard. I can separate the two version of the sport. Sure, it is similar, but it's also so different at the same time."

Whether you want to aim to be an Olympian in 3x3 or land a medal in traditional basketball, Aho is also quick to encourage more girls in her homeland and beyond to pick up a ball and give the sport a go.

"If you are a hard-working kid who really wants it and never gives up, then basketball is made for you," she insisted.

"My physical education teacher made me go and try basketball and I just loved it. The best part is that you are a part of something big; and it doesn't matter how many tasks of your own you have, you can still help other people and get the best out of them.

"You have to always be smart and persistent."

Meanwhile Aho is refreshingly honest when it comes to how her first year in the NCAA unfolded. Once the dust settles in Matosinhos and she has enjoyed a deserved break, it will be back to business at Duquesne – having taken much from an up-and-down first season.

She admitted: "My freshman year wasn't as good as I wanted it to be, but I learnt and experienced a lot.

"It is so different to European basketball - it is more physical. But, I think I improved as a player and I also changed as a person too," added Aho.

Hungary have blown hot-and-cold during their opening games, having made a major statement on opening day with a blistering win against France, before being blown out themselves by Slovenia.

Whether it ends up being more highs or lows remains to be seen, but Aho is intent on doing everything in her power to sign off her youth career with Hungary on a high.

"I love my team as we've been together for four to five years now," she mused.

"They are my family every single summer and this is the last one. I think we just have to play with confidence, enjoy the games and not fear anyone.

"As I said, we just have to try to make this last tournament together memorable."

FIBA