SHENZHEN (China) - When Jillian Archer stepped onto the court for her first-ever FIBA Women’s Asia Cup appearance, few could have predicted the impact she would make—not just for Lebanon, but against one of Asia’s most decorated stars.
Facing no less than Japan’s Ramu Tokashiki, a veteran at the forefront of Japan's previous dominant Women's Asia Cup run, Archer delivered a performance that turned more than a few heads.
Archer’s stat line told part of the story: 10 points, 12 rebounds and 2 steals. However, her true impact was felt in the way she limited Tokashiki.
Archer held the Japanese icon to just 4 points and 4 rebounds, well below her usual production. Archer’s quickness, strength and relentless energy frustrated Tokashiki all game, helping Lebanon stay within striking distance in a narrow 72-68 loss to one of the tournament favorites.
For Archer, the experience of just being able to play here in Shenzhen is nothing short of surreal.
"It feels surreal to be here, getting to know my teammates, spending so much time with them in Lebanon," she shared before the opening game. "I feel super blessed for this opportunity. The biggest thing I bring to this team is energy as well as focusing on the desire to win. I just want to go out there to give it my all, be a good teammate and team player."
Lebanon captain Rebecca Akl praised Archer after their defeat to Japan.
"She is fast, athletic, strong, and she was able to limit her opponent and jump on the screens and even defend Japan's guards," Akl said. "She’s got a great energy and is positive. She will keep on getting better in the next few games."
Archer’s ability to switch onto different players, contest shots and anchor the defense provided Lebanon with a new dimension, one that nearly propelled them to a historic upset.
What made Archer’s debut even more impressive was the composure she displayed against a seasoned opponent. There was no hesitation, no sign of nerves—just a fierce determination to compete and contribute. Her presence on the boards and willingness to do the dirty work set the tone for Lebanon’s gritty effort.
As the tournament unfolds, Archer’s breakout performance has already made her one of the players to watch. Lebanon may have found not just a new star, but a leader capable of challenging the very best in Asia.
FIBA