MATOSINHOS (FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship 2016) – They didn’t manage to take a win on Day 1 at the FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship 2016 but Emma Lina Stach and Germany have made people sit up and take notice.

Their opening performance against Italy was eye-catching and injected some real belief into the German locker room that just like last summer, they can once again preserve their cherished Division A status.

Stach was typically influential and showed leadership is in her DNA by topping her team’s numbers in rebounds and steals - as well as posting a headline 20-point performance in the 61-54 defeat. It underlined just how much of Germany’ destiny is in the hands of the classy player, who helped them avoid the drop at the event last year in Lanzarote.

"We played well and we were really tough, which made Italy have to play even better," mused Stach.

"There were some faults and if we work on the small details, then we can get the win we want against Sweden.

"I am so proud and now it’s just putting those little things right. I really do love playing for the national team and trying to be a leader by getting everyone involved in the game and also taking that concept off the court, by trying to support every one of my team-mates.

"Having fun is an important element too," she emphasised, as if to show that pressure isn’t in her vocabulary – only soaking up another important international experience and the last of her youth career.

"In fact, I’m really going to miss these youth tournaments and especially playing in Division A against all these great teams, because that is something which makes you become a much better player."

The difference between last year’s edition of the competition and hitting the hardwood in Matosinhos has been time spent in the NCAA with Gonzaga. Although it has proved demanding, with Stach earning a real sense of resilience for when she returns to the States.

She said, "It was tough for the whole team as we didn't make the Final Tournament, but it demonstrated the ups and downs that you have in basketball and I know we will try to hit back and be better than last year."

Stach plays like a leader and speaks like one. Whether it's sharing the frustration or elation, she wouldn't have it any other way.

She explained, "I started playing basketball when I was five years old with a friend and loved playing as a team.

"I was good at tennis, but chose to go against the individual sport route.

"That is because for me, winning and losing as a team and fighting for everything together on the court is what I love to do the most."

Stach and Germany face Sweden on Day 2 in Matosinhos, with both teams looking to record a first victory.

FIBA