The Women’s 3x3 Gangurrus have landed in Utsunomiya, Japan, primed for the upcoming FIBA 3x3 Olympic Qualifying Tournament scheduled to take place from 3-5 May.
Off the heels of their successful Asia Cup campaign in March, and winning a Bronze medal in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, the Gangurrus are now setting their sights firmly on Olympic qualification.
Head Coach Damon Lowery will guide a seasoned lineup featuring 2024 3x3 Asia Cup MVP Alex Wilson of the Bendigo Spirit, Marena Whittle, who arrives fresh from her debut European season with Spain's Movistar Estudiantes, Perth Lynx skipper Anneli Maley, and Adelaide Lightning sharpshooter Lauren Mansfield.
Miela Goodchild and Lara McSpadden stand ready as the team's travelling emergencies and will participate in the training camp during the days preceding the event.
“We are feeling good, we are grateful for the opportunity, all we can ask for is a chance.
“This team is special, they are high-quality people, they love playing with each other and they pride themselves on unselfishness,” praised Lowery.
With an Olympic qualification on the line, Lauren Mansfield said the team is ready and will approach each matchup with the same mindset that has brought them success thus far.
“Everyone is feeling good coming off the Asia Cup, but we know how competitive this tournament will be.
“We need to be playing high-quality basketball if we want a chance to qualify for the Olympics.
“This group is amazing to be a part of and our hunger to win and fast-paced play will be tough to beat,” declared Mansfield.
Currently placed at number six in the pool, the Gangurrus will kick off their campaign against third-ranked Netherlands, followed by Canada and Kenya, who are both sitting at second and seventh, respectively.
While China, France, Azerbaijan, and the USA have already clinched their spots for Paris, the pressure mounts as only one team can advance from this tournament.
With half the slots already filled and the final Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Hungary ineligible for the Gangurrus, this weekend’s qualifying event in Japan becomes crucial for the Aussies as they aim to punch their golden ticket to Paris.
All games will be livestreamed via FIBA3x3 YouTube and Kayo.
Follow the Gangurrus on Instagram for updates.
3 May 2024
Australia v Netherlands - 5:15pm AEST
4 May 2024
Australia v Kenya - 4:00pm AEST
Australia v Canada - 7:55pm AEST
