Katie Ebzery selected for second Olympic Games
Basketball star Katie Ebzery has been selected for her second Olympic Games as part of a 12-strong Australian Team for Tokyo.
The Rio Olympian is joined by Olympians Jenna O’Hea, Liz Cambage, Cayla George, Tessa Lavey, Leilani Mitchell, Stephanie Talbot and Marianna Tolo, with Rebecca Allen, Tess Madgen, Ezi Magbegor and Alanna Smith named for their Olympic debut.
The Opals are aiming to add to their rich Olympic legacy, with three Olympic silver and two bronze medals from Atlanta 1996 to London 2012; and took out silver at the 2018 World Cup in Spain.
Chef de Mission of the Australian Olympic Team Ian Chesterman welcomed the selected athletes to the Australian Olympic team for Tokyo.
“The Opals are one of Australia’s iconic teams who have an incredible record at the Olympic Games,” Mr Chesterman said.
“The squad named is brimming with talent, with athletes that want to build on the Opals legend, who are absolutely committed to be fighting it out on the final weekend in Tokyo.
“I’ve seen their determination first-hand and I wish them great success at these Games. The Opals are an important part of every Olympic Team, as playing for their country means so much to each and every one of them.”
Head coach Sandy Brondello brings a wealth of experience from her time as one of the Opals most prolific point guards.
“Every selection process is a difficult one as we have so many quality players in our squad but I feel we have named a very balanced team that will be able to adapt to any style of play we will confront in Tokyo,” Brondello said.
“We have good size, speed, toughness, versatility and experience which will all be required in a high-pressure situation as the Olympics.
“Our 19 days of preparation leading into our first game in Olympic tournament will be greatly beneficial to the team to develop the necessary chemistry for us to be at our peak when it matters.
“We are all excited about the journey that lies ahead and will be doing everything we can to GO for GOLD.”