RIO DE JANEIRO (FIBA World Championship for Women/Olympics) - Erika de Souza has been one of women's basketball's most dominant players the past several years in Europe and she's been very good in the WNBA as well.

A vital player in Brazil's national team, De Souza is always a handful for opponents.

At the 2011 FIBA Americas Championship, the 1.97m center was a powerhouse, averaging 16.2 points and eight rebounds as the Brazilians went unbeaten in their six games.

The Rio de Janeiro native also averaged 16.2 points and 8.8 rebounds at the London Games this past summer.

Thirty years of age, De Souza is still in her prime and will be with the national side at next year's FIBA Americas Championship for Women, when they attempt to qualify for the FIBA World Championship for Women in Turkey in 2014.

There is also the long-range plan for De Souza of being in the team when Brazil host the 2016 Olympics.

"I think it's early to think about it yet, but I know it will be my last cycle with the selection and I really want to be at the Olympics in Rio, even more so since it is in my city and (I want to play) in the presence of my friends and family," she said.

"It will be wonderful. I also know that the team and I have a lot of work ahead of us if we want a better result at the Games."

Brazil's lone win in London came on the last day of the women's Preliminary Round, against the host nation Great Britain.

Back home

De Souza has decided to return home and play professionally for Sport Recife in the women's league.

"I am very happy," she said.

"Recife is a wonderful place and the board of Sport is doing everything for us.

"Moreover, it is wonderful to return to Brazil and to be next to my friends fellow national squad teammates, Franciele and Adrianinha, is fantastic."

Brazil are hoping that the return of Erika and the decision by other prominent players, including foreigners, to play in the league will fuel interest in the women's game in the country.

"The national championship is about to start and many foreigners are coming to play here in Brazil," Erika said.

"I think the sum total of all this will help us to have more visibility and sponsorship and consequently increase the number of teams participating in the Women's League.

"That's what me and my companions are here for.

"I'm sure everyone will give their best to help grow women's basketball."

FIBA