MIES (Switzerland) - A Maria Conde inspired Spain flattened China and rode past Turkey to take preparation tournament honors in Vigo and suggest they could be a potential podium challenger at the Olympic Basketball Tournament Women Paris 2024.
While it's very early days, the signs are good for Miguel Mendez and his team after they followed up a solid 59-47 success against Türkiye on Friday night with a Sunday blowout of China.
Conde was instrumental in both victories, following up her team-high 11 points in the opener with another 14 against China as Spain completed a rampant and eye-catching 70-46 triumph.
Considering Spain also have options in the naturalized spot with both Megan Gustafson and Astou Ndour eligible, whoever is chosen to potentially link up in Paris will enhance their prospects even further.
The scale of defeat will be of concern to China, with only Xu Han showing any kind of creditable resistance, posting 16 points and 6 boards. Although China are missing some notable leaders and they did at least beat Turkey 56-51 on Saturday.
Elsewhere, Opals' fans will have taken note of the legendary Lauren Jackson continuing to roll back the years with another landmark performance at club level which bodes well for Paris.
Having dropped 50 points last month in the NBL1 for Albury-Wodonga, the forward was back at it again and repeating the feat.
Lauren Jackson scored 50 twice in a month! How good she will be in Paris?
Jackson registered 50 points and 15 boards in a win against Sutherland as she continues to play her way into form ahead of likely inclusion on the Opals' roster for Paris.
FIBA