Poland 3x3 men's team aim to again defy odds at Paris Olympics

WARSAW (Poland) - With a knack of producing their best on the big stage, Poland will again embrace their underdog status at the Paris Olympics. 

Let's take a closer look at the former World Cup and Europe Cup bronze medalists. 

POLAND

Ranking: 12th

Previous Olympic Appearances: 2021 (7th)

Squad: Adrian Bogucki, Filip Matczak, Michał Sokolowski, Przemysław Zamojski

Key Player: Przemysław Zamojski

The sharpshooter is the only remaining player from Poland's Tokyo Olympic campaign. Zamojski was not daunted by the bright lights, but that experience should serve him well this time around. 

Since then he's been Poland's main guy, assuming the mantle from legendary bucket getter Michael Hicks. And he's enjoyed the responsibility highlighted by single-handedly helping his country win bronze at FIBA 3x3 Europe Cup 2021.

He clinched the famous victory with a buzzer beater that was hailed in Poland as their version of Michael Jordan's iconic 'last shot' against the Jazz in 1998.

The 6ft. 4in (1.94m) Zamojski added another chapter to his legacy when he led Poland to an Olympic ticket after his heroics at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. 

Zamojski isn't nearly done as he eyes doing something special in Paris.  He will also have the opportunity of a lifetime as the flag-bearer for Poland at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. 

Qualification: Poland were the 11th seed of a loaded men's draw in Debrecen, but made a mockery of that with a stirring run that resulted in a ticket to Paris. 

Zamojski again showed off his clutch gene after a Maurice Lacroix Buzzer Beater against Mongolia triggered scenes of jubilation for Poland. 

He was again the Pole who stole the show, but he had plenty of support with Michal Sokolowski and Adrian Bogucki splashing all tournament long.

Expectations: Poland will arrive as an underdog, but they seem to thrive with a backs against the wall mentality. They've been counted out before, like in Debrecen, but Poland usually defy the odds. 

They relish quietly going about their business before opponents realize what hit them. 

Poland will unleash the same line-up that showed so much determination and class in Debrecen. Zamojski, Sokolowski and Bogucki can score in bunches with their firepower, while the Wilson is in safe hands with speedy Filip Matczak. 

Poland have shocked the world before - like memorably when they stunned Serbia to win bronze at World Cup 2019 - and don't be surprised if they turn heads again. 

FIBA