Team Profile - Will New Zealand make a splash?

X'IAN (China) - New Zealand are set to make a statement at the 2024 Paris Olympics FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in X'ian, China. The team's roster boasts a formidable lineup, including standout players Charlisse Leger-Walker, Akiene Tera Reed, and Stella Beck.

 

 

The Roster

Charlisse Leger-Walker, a skilled guard with a scoring instinct, is anticipated to lead the team's backcourt. Akiene Tera Reed's athleticism and defensive prowess will prove instrumental, while Stella Beck's experience and playmaking skills will bring balance to the team's offense.

The inclusion of these talented players in the Tall Ferns' squad underscores the team's depth and potential to compete at the highest level. With their skills and contributions, the team is determined to make a strong push for a coveted spot in the Olympic Games. The players are ready to leave it all on the floor, showcasing their preparedness to go all-out in China.

 

New Zealand will lean on Charlisse Leger-Walker.

The Tall Ferns' extended squad for this event also features other promising players, creating a well-rounded roster with a blend of youth and experience. These include Ritorya Tamilo and Lauren Whittaker. As the team prepares to face tough competition in X'ian, the collective talent and commitment of players like Leger-Walker, Reed, and Beck will be vital in their pursuit of success on the international stage.

Will Penina Davidson continue playing well at the OQT level?

The Question

The most significant question facing the Tall Ferns revolves around their capacity to consistently perform as a cohesive team. While their individual talent is undeniable, similar strengths exist in other teams. Historically, New Zealand has excelled when the team strikes the right balance, and the magic of chemistry propels them to the next level. Unraveling this alchemy mystery will be pivotal for their performance in China.

The Hope

The hope for the Tall Ferns is to showcase their potential and prove their worth on the international stage. With a pretty strong lineup and a ton of motivation, the team aims to turn a lot of heads and make a splash. The upcoming match against Puerto Rico, a team that showcased outstanding performance at the 2022 Women's World Cup, holds immense importance. A victory in this game could secure their ticket to France, marking the national team's return to the Olympic Games for the first time since 2008. Undoubtedly, this match stands as a generational moment for the team.

Nobody should overlook the Tall Ferns in X'ian.

The Fear

To be honest, New Zealand isn't under significant pressure. As neither the tournament hosts nor heavy favorites to secure a qualifying ticket for France, they have the opportunity to use this underdog status to their advantage and play with freedom, unburdened by negativity.

It's crucial for them to remain resilient when facing strong opposition. Notably, their previous loss to China by 34 points at the FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2023 is a reminder of the potential challenges. Another substantial defeat could jeopardize their hopes significantly. 

 IN THE LAST 10 FIBA EVENTS

YEAR	EVENT	LOCATION	ACHIEVEMENT
2023	FIBA Women's Asia Cup	Sydney (AUS)	4th
2021	FIBA Women's Asia Cup	Amman (JOR)	5th
2019	FIBA Women's Asia Cup	Bangalore (IND)	5th
2017	FIBA Women's Asia Cup	Bangalore (IND)	6th
2016	FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament	Nantes (FRA)	3rd
2015	FIBA Oceania Women’s Championship	Melbourne (AUS) and Tauranga (NZL)	2nd
2013	FIBA Oceania Women’s Championship	Auckland (NZL) and Canberra (AUS)	2nd
2012	FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament	Ankara (TUR)	3rd
2011	FIBA Oceania Women’s Championship	Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney (AUS)	2nd
2009	FIBA Oceania Women’s Championship	Canberra (AUS) and Dunedin (NZL)	2nd

The poll

FIBA