The group stage for women’s 5×5 basketball has come to an end, and as teams travel from Lille to Paris, a hierarchy of players is emerging.
Familiar faces from the WNBA like Emma Meesseman, Satou Sabally, A’ja Wilson, and Breanna Stewart are shining in the Olympics once again. However, some lesser-known players are making a name for themselves on the big stage.
Ezinne Kalu (Nigeria)
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Nigeria’s team has surprised many with their performance, becoming the first African team to reach the Olympic quarterfinals. Ezinne Kalu is standing out with her scoring ability and all-around game.
Kalu’s knack for getting to the free-throw line and scoring efficiently makes her a threat to any defense, including Team USA’s.
Alexis Peterson (Germany)
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Germany’s success in the tournament can be attributed to players like Satou Sabally and Alexis Peterson. Peterson’s speed and scoring ability have been crucial for the team’s performance.
Peterson’s experience in the WNBA and her determination to make an impact are evident in her play, making her a key player for Germany.
Maki Takada (Japan)
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While Japan struggled in the group stage, Maki Takada stood out for her scoring efficiency and all-around game, showcasing her offensive prowess.
Takada’s performance in the Olympics solidifies her reputation as an offensive powerhouse despite Japan’s team struggles.
Although Takada may not have WNBA opportunities due to her age, she remains a talented player that could attract interest from future expansion teams.
Mai Yamamoto also showed promise for Japan before a concussion sidelined her, hinting at a bright future in international basketball.
