Watkins named TISSOT MVP to lead All-Star Five in Debrecen

DEBRECEN (Hungary) - USA standout JuJu Watkins enjoyed a double celebration at the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 after being named TISSOT MVP of the competition, adding to her title success.

Heading into the tournament with a big reputation, the guard didn't disappoint as USA took yet another crown with an 84-62 triumph in the Final against Spain. Watkins finished with an average of 13.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 2.3 steals per game.

"It's been a long journey and coming out with gold is a dream come true," said Watkins after receiving her accolade and the Tissot MVP trophy handed by FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis.

She added: "This group is amazing and it's great being surrounded by these girls and these amazing coaches, Spain is a great team and we had to really prepare for them. We kept our composure throughout to get the win."

"I am so blessed to be around my teammates as we all fed off each other and everyone did their thing. Also being in this environment is great for me.  I really enjoyed seeing all the other talent that is around the world."

From left to right : Dominique Malonga, Cassandre Prosper, Iyana Martin Carrion, Jaloni Cambridge and JuJu Watkins

Watkins was joined by USA colleague Jaloni Cambridge who's excellent start to the title game got her team rolling towards yet another podium top step. The guard averaged 9.4 points, 5.1 assists, 3.9 rebounds and 2.4 steals per outing.

Iyana Martin Carrion picked up a silver medal, but the Spanish ace was recognized for being her team's top scorer and awarded a place in the All-Star Five.  She accumulated 13.4 points, 6.1 assists, 2.9 steals and 2.3 boards per game.

France wrapped up the bronze medal with an 84-82 win against Canada as Dominique Malonga showed out - as she has done for much of her time in Debrecen. She was phenomenal in the Third Place Game, dropping 28 points and 17 rebounds, which contributed to her averaging a tournament double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds.

While Cassandre Prosper left empty-handed and without a medal with Canada, she gained huge respect for her efforts by sealing the last All-Star Five spot. Her ability to make plays at both ends of the court impressed and she harvested an excellent 14.0 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.6 steals and 2.4 assists per game.

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