Zhang Ziyu draws attention at Women's Basketball World Cup

Zhang Ziyu, a 19-year-old basketball player from China, has become a standout figure at the Women's Basketball World Cup in Berlin. Standing at 2.23 meters, she is recognized by FIBA as the tallest player to ever participate in an organizationally sanctioned women's competition.

Representing the Shandong Shangao Basketball Club, Zhang's height has forced opposing teams to adjust their defensive strategies. During China's opening match against the United States, she recorded 13 points, six rebounds, and two blocks in 18 minutes of play. In a subsequent match against Puerto Rico, she scored 13 points in just nine minutes.

Chinese head coach Gong Luming described her as “a unique talent in a century,” noting that training focuses on improving her mobility and running speed to adapt to the modern, faster pace of the game. To support her development, the Chinese Federation has provided her with a specialized team including a physical trainer, kinesiologist, doctor, and nutritionist.