BADEN-BADEN (Germany) - After creating history for their mighty sports country, Germany's 3x3 Olympic heroes were honored with a prestigious national award.
Germany women's team, featuring Sonja Greinacher, Marie Reichert, Svenja Brunckhorst and Elisa Mevius, etched their names in the record books in Paris by winning the country's first Olympic medal in any basketball discipline.
Their feats were acknowledged when they were voted Germany's Team of the Year by journalists across the country. It was double delight with their coach Samir Suliman crowned Trainer of the Year.
Germany women's team have been a powerhouse for some time, but entered the Paris Olympics unfancied given their mixed record at major events. But they created a legacy for themselves after an epic run culminated in a thrilling victory over Spain in an unforgettable final.
They returned home as household names in a tonic for 3x3 which is quickly rising in a country excelling in basketball.
"We are so incredibly proud and grateful for this award," Paris Olympics MVP Greinacher wrote on Instagram. "One of the highlights was being congratulated by so many top athletes and being able to celebrate our coach as 'Trainer of the Year'."
As we conclude this crazy 2024, it was a perfect opportunity for the players to reflect on the most incredible moment of their careers. "This definitely is the best life we ever lived. Love my people!" wrote young star Mevius.
"Who would have thought that this year could be even more amazing? Incredibly happy to be able to crown the year 2024 with my team like this," said veteran Reichert, who hit a number of clutch shots in Paris.
Other major winners included rhythmic gymnast Darja Varfolomeev and rower Oliver Zeidler, who were named Sports Personalities of the Year after winning Olympic gold in Paris.
FIBA