KLATOVY (FIBA U17 World Championship for Women) - The atmosphere created by the home supporters and terrific performances of Julia Reisingerova have proven a productive and potent mix for the Czech Republic as they search for a coveted place in the Quarter-Finals of the FIBA U17 World Championship for Women.

Without wanting to upset fans in Klatovy who have created a thunderous roar of sound for the hosts, the Czech Republic will be happy if their Round of 16 encounter with Italy is their last outing in the town.

As is to be expected, everyone wants to be in Pilsen for the last three days of the competition, where the medals will be determined and dreams made.

Reisingerova, for her part, has certainly lived up to expectations. In fact, she may have even surpassed them.

A tower of strength under the hoop and continually wreaking havoc in the paint, the centre has been the pivotal figure in proceedings so far, averaging an eye-popping 25 points and 15 rebounds through the three games.

Yet for all the adulation she is quite rightly receiving, Reisingerova wasted no time in reciprocating the respect by pouring praise onto those who have turned out to support the home favourites in such impressive numbers and with unmistakable passion.

More than 2,100 spectators turned out for the home team's win over Canada in Klatovy on Tuesday.

"It's an amazing feeling to play here (in Klatovy) and the best part is that we know these fans really want to be here," said the rising star with an accompanying smile.

"We really do feel just how much love and support they give to us, which makes us all very happy.

"All of the players really like it a lot and we are thankful for this."

Reisingerova had to bring her 'A-game' yet again to help her nation sneak past Canada and set up their meeting with Italy which will determine whether they switch to Pilsen for a medal challenge.

"It was very difficult (against Canada) because of the overtime we had to play against Hungary in the previous game," said the 16-year-old.

"We had no energy left, but we knew the way Canada played and we managed to stop them.

"We now know Italy well and have played them in European tournaments and watched them in thes past games.

"For us it is better we face Italy, rather than an even better team."

As jaw-dropping as the performances of Reisingerova have been, Czech Republic are not completely reliant on their kingpin - as evidenced by the supporting contribution made by Tereza Sipova against the Canadians.

She also identified the support from the crowd as being essential to their progress, but also admitted it is hard to enjoy things off the court as she's doing everything possible to focus on the basketball itself.

"The fans are really great and we are enjoying playing in this noisy atmosphere," claimed Sipova.

"However, enjoying many of these feelings will probably only truly take place after the tournament.

"I am concentrating as much as I possibly can on the games themselves.

"We are looking forward to playing Italy and really want to reach the podium, but we will take it game by game for now."

FIBA