Full Breakdown
Zhang Ziyu’s Rise at the Women’s Basketball World Cup
9/9/2026, 6:44:40 PM
Core Performance
Nineteen-year-old Zhang Ziyu, standing 2.23 metres (7 ft 4 in), debuted for China at the Women’s Basketball World Cup in Germany. In the overtime win over the Czech Republic, she logged just over ten minutes and contributed three points, helping China edge the game 74-70. Earlier in the tournament, Zhang faced the United States, where China fell 94-61, but her presence forced the American side to adjust defensively.
Background & Context
Zhang’s height is listed at 223 cm by FIBA, surpassing even NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal. She first attracted international attention by earning MVP honors at the U-18 Women’s Asia Cup two years earlier. Her stature makes her a rare outlier in women’s basketball, where height already confers a significant advantage.
Official Reactions
Teammate Han Xu described Zhang as “just a little girl” off the court, emphasizing the need to protect her from excessive pressure while noting her ability to finish at the rim and guard the paint. Han, who led China with 22 points against the Czechs, said the team is working to use her more aggressively.
U.S. star Caitlin Clark praised Zhang, calling her a “wonderful player” and highlighting that she is still learning to leverage her size. Clark added that opponents find it difficult to stop Zhang when she drives close to the basket.
Impact and Outlook
The combination of Zhang’s unprecedented height and developing skill set has sparked speculation about a future in the WNBA. Both Han and Clark cautioned against inflating expectations, urging a focus on gradual growth and experience. Viral footage of Zhang towering over opponents has already drawn global attention, suggesting her profile will continue to rise as she gains more tournament minutes.
