DONGGUAN (China) - Even Khulan Onolbaatar acknowledges that the 2024-25 season has been one of her busiest stretches ever, having played basketball almost non-stop - and in various places, too.
But she wouldn't trade it for the world.
"This year has truly been one of the busiest yet most rewarding seasons of my career," she reflected. "Especially this summer, the schedule was incredibly packed with back-to-back competitions, travel, and training."
"But, I always remind myself how fortunate I am to be able to do what I love the most in life as my profession," continued the former Olympian, who began playing competitively when she was 18.
Well, nobody would, especially if hectic meant historic as well. The 26-year-old made yet another momentous feat in her career when she became the first female player from Mongolia to play in an overseas league.
To be part of this journey means I get to represent not just my team, but also every young girl and fan in Mongolia who loves basketball.
Onolbaatar accomplished as much when she joined Wuhan Shengfan of the Women's Chinese Basketball Association (WCBA), an experience which she says helped her grow as a pro - and as a person - further.
"Competing at a higher level pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged me to improve every single day, whether in terms of skills, physical preparation, or mental toughness," she offered.
"More than anything, it showed me what it takes to compete consistently at the professional level, and I know those lessons will stay with me throughout my career," added the 1.81 M (5'11") winger.
"On top of that, living and playing overseas gave me the opportunity to connect with new cultures and communities, which was equally enriching," Onolbaatar continued.
After that WCBA stint, the hits would come one after the other. Just last June, she helped Mongolia to an unprecedented silver medal in the FIBA 3x3 World Cup and became part of the Team of the Tournament.
The following month then saw her represent the country in Division B of the FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2025 in China, where the team won half of their six assignments and ultimately finished at fourth place.
Now, she's in China again to help author another 'first' for the rising basketball nation.
Onolbaatar has rejoined the Ulaanbaatar Amazons for the FIBA Women's Basketball League Asia (WBL Asia) 2025, marking the debut of Mongolia in the premier women's club competition in the continent.
"Representing Mongolia on the 3x3 circuit, wearing the national team jersey, and now stepping onto the court in a FIBA club competition - these are opportunities that many athletes dream of," she offered.
"And I don’t take them for granted," she added.
They're coming in by virtue of being the 2024-25 Women's The League champions but this campaign, for her, is more than just showing that the Mongolian club hoops scene is as competitive with some of Asia's finest.
"It’s not only a personal milestone but also a historic moment for our country. To be part of this journey means I get to represent not just my team, but also every young girl and fan in Mongolia who loves basketball," she said.
"I believe this tournament will open a brand new chapter for Mongolian women’s basketball, giving us the chance to prove ourselves on an international stage, gain valuable experience, and inspire the next generation of players."
No wonder she keeps going.
FIBA