At FIBAU16Europe Division B, which up-and-coming athletes will make the largest impression?

Posted : 07 August 2023

The FIBA U16 Women's European Championship 2023, Division B in Montenegro is set to feature a crop of emerging talents poised to exhibit their skills on the big stage.

As the tournament gets underway on Thursday, August 10, here are a few names that warrant your attention:

Joyce Isi Etute - Luxembourg

Etute's imposing size and strength are bound to give defenders nightmares in Podgorica. Having already showcased her abilities in the same event last year, the Luxembourg standout made a significant impact. She emerged as the leading rebounder of the competition with an impressive average of 15.8 rebounds per game. Additionally, Etute notched a tournament double-double, contributing over 14 points per outing.

Daniele Paunksnyte - Lithuania

Although Paunksnyte participated in Division A last time around, her Lithuania team unfortunately dropped to Division B. As this year's team captain, she has more motivation than most to lead her team back to the top tier. A versatile playmaker, Paunksnyte's shooting performance in 2022 wasn't at its best. If she can improve her shooting, she will become the primary offensive force and maintain her prowess on the boards.

Jelena Bulajic - Montenegro

Carrying a significant weight of home expectations, Bulajic stood out at the U16 level last summer. Impressively, she boasts not one, but two U20 tournaments on her resume, an extraordinary feat considering her age. As the star player for the hosts, Bulajic possesses the ability to orchestrate plays from the backcourt and deliver clutch performances. Her all-around skills make her an indispensable asset.

Quintilla Hidalgo - Netherlands

Although Hidalgo's numbers at the 2022 edition might appear modest, she returns this year as a potential standout for her team. She holds the potential to enhance her offensive production and contribute to her team's aspiration of securing promotion. With her athleticism, shot-blocking ability for her position, and strong rebounding, she could be a formidable force if her shooting improves.

Isold Saevarsdottir - Iceland

Having showcased promise last year, Saevarsdottir aims to elevate her game for Iceland in the current edition. Armed with experience from 2022, she is set to make a bigger impact. As the top scorer averaging 11.3 points per game and excelling in rebounding and playmaking, her increased maturity is likely to lead to even better performance. Opponents will definitely have her on their scouting radar.

Svitlana Poliantseva - Ukraine

Poliantseva not only participated last year but also featured in the 2023 youth tournament, the FIBA U18 Women's European Championship, Division B. Her 25 minutes per game at the higher age level underscore her crucial role for Ukraine in Podgorica. While her stats might not be staggering, she stands out as a leader on the team.

As the event unfolds, you can also participate in the fan vote below to express your opinion on which player you believe will make the most significant impact.

At FIBAU16Europe Division B, which up-and-coming athletes will make the largest impression?

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