CHN - U17 China sensation: "I love French cakes and Coco Chanel!"

TOULOUSE (2010 FIBA U17 World Championship for Women) - China's Liwei Yang has helped China take care of business on the court at the U17 FIBA World Championship, but she does make time for the other interests she has away from the hardwood.

At just 15 years of age, she is one of the youngest players of the tournament, but she has played well beyond her years in helping China finish the Preliminary Round with a 4-1 mark to finish second behind Belgium in Group B.

China will take on Russia in the first of Friday's quarter-finals and Yang's versatility will be at a premium for Wang Guizhi's side.

FIBA.com caught up with Yang who revealed her passion for French fashion and deserts.

FIBA: You are so young and already playing at a World Championship. When did you start playing?
Yang: I first touched a basketball when I was five-years-old, I started at a very young age.

FIBA: Why did you choose basketball?
Yang: It's a very popular in China. Actually I am not out of a basketball family. My father is a football coach. I have a younger sister, but she does not play basketball.

FIBA: Is this your first time travelling outside of China?
Yang: No I have been with the team to India, Korea and Thailand. But this is my first time in Europe.

FIBA: Are you homesick?
Yang: No, I am not a shy person. I am outgoing and I like to make friends with players from other teams. We have a language barrier, but we can communicate with hands and gestures.

FIBA: What did you know from France before you came her?
Yang: (with a big smile) Great shopping and famous fashion brands!

FIBA: So what's your preferred fashion label?
Yang: Coco Channel

FIBA: We are sure that Karl Lagerfeld loves to hear that. And what about the French food?
Yang: It's very different from what we are used to, but it is very good. I love French cakes.


FIBA/LOC