China boosted by return of veteran star Chen

BEIJING (2016 FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament) - China have been handed a boost in their pursuit of a ticket for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games after the surprise return to the mix of veteran star Nan Chen.

The 33-year-old had effectively retired from the game and in the last few years has been juggling a new coaching role along with new found motherhood. But, a change of heart means she is ready to lace up her basketball shoes once again and pull her beloved China vest back over her head.

Her U-turn also has a whiff of unfinished business about it, since Chen last featured for the national team at the 2013 FIBA Asia Women's Championship when China relinquished their coveted title to arch rivals Japan in Bangkok.

Assuming head coach Tom Maher opts to take her to the 2016 FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament (WOQT) in Nantes, Chen will be bidding to become a four-time Olympian. She has previously stepped out at the Athens, Beijing and London Games - her value and stature defined by the fact she led her country in both points and rebounds in the British capital.

While accelerated by her family situation, many believe that Chen retired too early and will be thrilled to see her try and establish herself again. While expecting her to have the same impact as she has had in the past would be unrealistic, her experience and composure in pressure situations could be invaluable.

China will play Spain and Venezuela when they take to the floor at the WOQT in Nantes, France from 13-19 June, where the top five teams will qualify for Rio 2016.

The Chinese will have to be at the very top of their game if they are to push Group D favourites Spain - although with Chen on board, it potentially gives an absolutely mouth-watering dynamic. That is because China fans will simply love seeing the priceless know-how of Chen working in tandem with new national team star and leader, Ting Shao.

FIBA