SHENZHEN (China) - For Sanjana Ramesh, the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025 marks a milestone—the first time she’s representing India at a senior-level FIBA Asia event. Having previously showcased her talents at the FIBA U16 Women’s Asia Championship 2017 Division B and the SABA Women’s Championship 2025, Ramesh now steps confidently onto Asia’s biggest stage, ready to help lead a young Indian squad hungry for success.
Prior to opening day, Ramesh spoke about the team’s dynamic and ambitions.
"We’re a really young group and we’ve been training for three months right now. So we’re super excited to finally play the FIBA Asia Cup again, and I hope we take the promotion," she said.
Of course, she also acknowledged the team's roster overhaul from the last group that played at this level.
"There was a big roster change this time around. We’ve got a lot of junior players," she added.
Only two remain from the 2021 squad, with three current players aged 23 or younger.
"We would need a lot of discipline and determination and play as a team, basically," Ramesh said. "We need a lot of teamwork. Having a lot of young players will really help us bring a new type of energy on the court, and that’s what’s going to help us win.”
Ramesh also expressed admiration for Senthil Kumar, highlighting her importance to the team.
"I think fans should watch out for Pushpa Senthil Kumar, as usual," Ramesh said. "She’s been a star for India, and she’s also the captain of the team. I think she’s really going to do well."
India’s young core, led by Ramesh and anchored by Senthil Kumar, embodies a new chapter in Indian women’s basketball. Their goal is clear: to return India to Division A and compete at the highest level in Asia. The blend of youthful enthusiasm and experienced leadership creates a promising foundation for this ambitious squad.
That foundation bore fruit on Day 1. After missing out on the 2023 edition of the FIBA Women's Asia Cup, India’s 85-68 opening win over Kazakhstan was a statement of intent.
As the tournament progresses, it will be crucial for Ramesh to help this young team harness their energy and discipline to challenge more experienced squads. For Ramesh, FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025 is not just a competition. It's a proving ground for a new generation ready to make their mark.
FIBA