U17 Sapphires prepare to take on the world

The U17 Sapphires have arrived in Mexico for the FIBA U17 Women's World Cup as they begin their tournament in Group C, playing against Puerto Rico, Croatia and the USA.

Australia last won a medal at a FIBA U17 World Cup in 2018, finishing in third place which was only the second time an Australian team claimed a medal at the tournament.

Australia is the only team other than the USA to have won the U17 Women’s World Cup, with their success coming in 2016 in a comprehensive win in the final that was the first time the Sapphires had won a medal at the U17 World Cup.

Australia managed to return to a medal finish in the following tournament in 2018, claiming bronze.

With an empty trip at the last U17 World Cup in 2022, the Sapphires aim to return to glory and walk out of Mexico with a medal in hand, led by head coach Thomas Garlepp.

Garlepp is optimistic of the Sapphires chances.

“I think this team can play a few different ways through many combinations of players.

"The girls represent a team that have pushed each other to this point in the journey through their junior careers, and I feel will continue to do so through the world cup and beyond.”  he said. 

The team is set to play the five-time tournament winning USA team in the group stage which will be an early challenge for the Sapphires.

“The USA will be tough on both ends as usual, and our focus and preparation will centre around competing and being the best we can be.

"I think when you have the opportunity to play at a World Cup against strong sides such as these, you get the opportunity to grow and sharpen your game and we are excited about that.” said Garlepp.

FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup, Mexico 2024  

POOL C: Puerto Rico, Australia, USA, Croatia 
All games can be viewed live via FIBA YouTube.