SZEKESFEHERVAR (Hungary) - It would be tough to identify a more positive basketball story in 2020 than the return to the court of Hungarian rising star Livia Gereben.

Having starred for her country at multiple youth level level events, including on the 3x3 scene, and also in EuroCup Women with some super outings for KSC Szekszard, Gereben was stopped in her tracks early in 2019 by the news that she had leukemia.

Still a teenager when diagnosed, the past 12 months or so has meant having to undergo intensive medical treatment, including a bone marrow transplant.

That is why there were smiles all around in Szekesfehervar as Gereben understandably took center stage at a national team gathering as she stepped out onto the floor to practice.

 
While still having to take special precautionary measures due to her health situation, there was a celebratory mood around this major footstep in her recovery.

"It's like I came home," stated Gereben.

"I was so excited I could barely sleep and I was looking forward to meeting the team, because I hadn't met 90 percent of the girls in more than a year," she smiled.

Meanwhile Head Coach Norbery Szekely added: "Livi is here with us, and it's a huge experience for all of us. It's great to see her, fighting on the court rather than her sickbed.

"She has already started practicing, albeit without contact yet. Her legs are strong and fast, which is a good sign, but nothing should be rushed."

Gereben will also continue working at club level too, having signed a deal to return to KSC Szekszard who have supported her throughout her illness.

FIBA