SHENZHEN (China) - At 26 years old, Park JiSu has become an indispensable pillar for the Korean national team at the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025. Now appearing in her fourth Asia Cup following stints in 2015, 2017 and 2023, Park’s towering presence in the paint remains vital for her squad’s success. Though not the primary offensive weapon, her ability to match up physically with the opposition’s bigs and impact the game on both ends distinguishes her as Korea’s bulwark in the paint.
Currently averaging 7.3 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.3 blocks per game, Park’s contributions extend well beyond scoring. Her defensive authority and rebounding strength form the backbone of Korea’s gritty style of play, helping the team advance past the group phase.
Park’s clutch impact was on full display early in the tournament, when she hit the game-winning layup against New Zealand on Day 2. In the dying seconds of that game, Park powered through the defense to put Korea up, 78-76, preserving a tense victory after a furious New Zealand comeback. The moment showcased her poise and strength, even as team captain Kang LeeSeul got hurt and exited the game.
"It’s important for her (JiSu) to get back in her shape to achieve the best performance," said Korea’s coach Park SooHo. "Today (against New Zealand), she did pretty well, offensively and defensively. This is good preparation for her to play better in future games."
Park herself feels she is in better form compared to the previous Women's Asia Cup.
"I am glad to be back. In 2023, I wasn’t in the best shape. Back then, I felt like a rookie again because my last Asia Cup was in 2017," she recalled. "Now, I bring more experience to help my team play to our strengths."
In a team where size isn't really their calling card, Park knows her role is crucial.
"In Korea, there aren't many tall players like me, so it's important for me to have a lot of rebounds and be strong in the paint," she said. "Our strength is shooting, so if I do my part and we shoot well, we can reach the semi-finals or maybe even beyond."
Her teammate Park JiHyun emphasized how pivotal Park is on the court.
"If JiSu is on the court, we have to know how to play with her and maximize her," said JiHyun.
As Korea build a team that blends shooting prowess with interior toughness, Park JiSu remains the steady anchor. Her size, skill and timely plays shape Korea’s identity and give them a chance to compete with Asia’s best. With more games beckoning, Park’s presence inside will be key to Korea’s mission to reclaim a spot in the top four.
FIBA