Team Profile - Can anybody slow down China on their home court?

X'IAN (CHINA) - Eager to sustain their winning streak following an impressive run in the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 and subsequent triumph as FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2023 champions, can China be stopped on their home turf?

 

 

The Roster

As China strives to reaffirm its status as a dominant force in women's basketball, much hinges on the remarkable depth of their roster. The towering duo of Li Yueru and Han Xu will, as always, play pivotal roles. Remember that Han Xu notably secured MVP honors in Sydney, Australia during the FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2023. Meanwhile, Li Yueru has been showcasing her skills in EuroCup Women with Besiktas in Europe. She brings a fresh perspective and valuable experience as she returns to the team after missing last year's Women's Asia Cup.

 Yueru Li is back to make China even stronger.

The exceptionally talented Meng Li also earned a spot in the All-Star Five in Sydney last year. She continues to be an outstanding leader in every aspect for her country. Meng Li is poised to establish the tempo from the outset and ensure that everyone is prepared for the challenges ahead. Will any team be able to put a damper on China's formidable home-court advantage?

Can Meng Li continue her stellar play at the OQT level?

The Question

The twin tower combination of Han Xu and Li Yueru should prove potent for China. Meng Li should also have very little problem getting her teammates in their strong spots on the floor. That said, will China's "big three" be enough to topple the likes of France, Puerto Rico and New Zealand? Remember that only two teams (outside of France) will qualify to Paris from this group.

The Hope

With Li Yueru back in the fold, China are even stronger now than they were in Sydney last year -- at least on paper. Chemistry will be the main challenge as Li Yueru reintegrates into the squad. However, this China team are looking more and more dangerous with each passing day. If they play true to form, fans hope they can finish atop the group in X'ian.

China should be extra-motivated as they play in front of their passionate hometown fans.

The Fear

With France already qualified as Olympic Games hosts, China are heavy favorites to clinch a spot. This is especially true as they play at home. However, New Zealand and Puerto Rico are dangerous adversaries. If China rest on their laurels here, they could be on the wrong side of an upset or two.

 IN THE LAST 10 FIBA EVENTS

YEAR	EVENT	LOCATION	ACHIEVEMENT
2023	FIBA Women's Asia Cup	Sydney (AUS)	1st
2022	FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup	Sydney (AUS)	2nd
2021	FIBA Women's Asia Cup	Amman (JOR)	3rd
2021	Olympic Games	Tokyo (JPN)	5th
2019	FIBA Women's Asia Cup	Bengaluru (IND)	3rd
2018	FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup	Tenerife (ESP)	6th
2017	FIBA Women's Asia Cup	Bengaluru (IND)	2nd
2016	Olympic Games	Rio (BRA)	10th
2015	FIBA Women's Asia Cup	Wuhan (CHN)	2nd
2014	FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup	Istanbul (TUR)	6th

The poll
 

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