Red-Hot Marine Johannes shoots the lights out against Puerto Rico
XI'AN (China) - The French guard started the game on the bench, but ignited a brilliant display upon her entrance. Her first half proved pivotal, effectively kick-starting France's 2024 campaign.
XI'AN (China) - The French guard started the game on the bench, but ignited a brilliant display upon her entrance. Her first half proved pivotal, effectively kick-starting France's 2024 campaign. She is, of course, the TCL Player of The Game.
"For my part, I don't want to put immense pressure on myself regarding my return with the national team", Marine Johannes said to the French Federation website before the start of the event.
"I simply want to enjoy myself with the girls; I'm so happy to be here with the team that I want to make the most of it."
She certainly delivered against Puerto Rico.
Despite being the 10th player to step onto the court for France, Johannes wasted no time making her presence felt. Within her first 2 minutes of action, she notched 6 points, including 2 signature threes. The 1.77M (5'10") guard concluded the half with an impressive stat line of 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, resulting in an EFF Rating of 18, all achieved in just 10 minutes of play.
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Johannes entered the game with the score tied and left the court with France holding a substantial lead. The remainder of the game proved to be smooth sailing for MJ and her teammates. The 29-year-old finished the game with 17 points (5-10 from three), 6 rebounds, and 6 spectacular assists in just 16 minutes of action.
"I think it was a good first step for us," Johannes said after the win. "We still have a lot of work to do, but our defense was good."
She is also looking forward to play against Han Xu in their next OQT game against China.
"I think is going to be a different game on Saturday. It will be a tough game for us," she said, looking forward to their matchup with the hosts. "Also playing against Han is something nice. I'm happy playing against her."
She embodied every aspect of a player ranked 4th in the WOQTs Smart Player Power Rankings, as published prior to the competition's commencement.
Marine's career-best scoring performance with the French National Team remains at 23 points, attained on June 23rd, 2019, in a successful friendly match against China.
Can she replicate that remarkable feat against the host team on Saturday, February 10th?
FIBA