In a tournament filled with exhilarating moments and exceptional performances, the spotlight now turns to the outstanding athletes who have etched their names in the history books of the 2024 IWBF Asia Oceania Championships. The Women's All-Star Five, a distinguished selection celebrating prowess across various categories, and the Most Valuable Player (MVP) have been unveiled, honoring the remarkable talent displayed on the court.
Women’s All-Star Five:
Mayo Hagino (Japan) - 1.0 – 1.5
An indispensable force for Japan, Mayo Hagino's consistent contributions throughout the tournament were pivotal in securing a silver medal. Starting all six games and averaging 29 minutes per game, she played a crucial role in Japan's success.
Amane Yanagimoto (Japan) - 2.0 – 2.5
Recognized for her playmaking abilities, Yanagimoto's impact in the 2.0-2.5 category was instrumental for Japan. Her steady performances played a crucial role in Japan's journey to the silver medal.
Natnapa Ponin (Thailand) - 3.0 – 3.5
A scoring sensation, Natnapa Ponin emerged as the tournament's top scorer, amassing an impressive 131 points and averaging 18.7 points per game. Her offensive prowess showcased Thailand's competitive spirit.
Xuemei Zhang (China) - 4.0 – 4.5
Zhang's performance was nothing short of spectacular, culminating in a standout display in the final. Averaging 14.7 points and 7 rebounds per game, she stepped up with a monumental 29-point performance in the final, securing gold for China and a direct ticket to Paris.
Most Valuable Player (Women): Suiling Lin (China)
Quickly becoming a stalwart in wheelchair basketball, Suiling Lin's legacy continued to shine as she earned her place in the Asia Oceania Championships All-Star Team for the third time (2017, 2019, 2024). As a 3.0 player, Lin showcased versatility, being the highest 3-pointer scorer and consistently delivering double-digit performances in all but one game.
As these exceptional athletes bask in the glory of their achievements, they serve as an inspiration for the growth and excellence of wheelchair basketball in the Asia Oceania region. Voted on by the participating teams, the All-Star Five recognizes the best player in each sporting class, while the MVP title crowns the overall standout player of the tournament.
Congratulations to the Women's All-Star Five and MVP for their outstanding contributions to the 2024 IWBF Asia Oceania Championships!
Photo Credit: X-1/IWBF
