TUR - Yilmaz eyes London

ISTANBUL (FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women) - Nevriye Yilmaz has accomplished a lot in her career already, especially with Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce.

The greatest moment in her career, at least with the national side, came last year when she and Turkey stunned defending champions France in the Semi-Finals of the EuroBasket Women.

The Turks needed overtime but edged Les Bleues.

They fell to Russia in the title game in Poland, however.

By reaching the last four of that event, Turkey booked their place in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) for Women and now, as hosts, they have one thing in mind.

"We need to make the most of this opportunity," Yilmaz said.

"We need to obtain the right to go to the Olympics for our country and our federation, and because it would be an important achievement for the players."

A member of the all-tournament team at last year's EuroBasket, Yilmaz is confident that Turkey can meet their aims.

Turkey recently gave citizenship to Quanitra Hollingsworth, a native of the American state of Virginia who has played basketball in Europe.

This season, Hollingsworth helped Gyor to the Hungarian title and also competed in the EuroLeague Women with the team.

Another naturalized Turk is Nevin Nevlin, the star of their Semi-Final win over France in 2011.

"We have begun training with a full squad, which is important," Yilmaz said.

"A new friend (Hollingsworth) has also received Turkish citizenship and joined us. We have grown. We will have success."

FIBA