SHENZHEN (China) – In her fourth FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, Park JiHyun has emerged not just as a top scorer and defender, but as the driving force of South Korea’s effort to reclaim their place among Asia’s elite. With star forward Kang LeeSeul sidelined after Day 2, JiHyun’s role evolved dramatically, and she rose to lead a team hungry to return to the to four after missing out for the first time in 2023.
Averaging an impressive 16.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 2.6 steals per game while knocking down 1.8 triples, JiHyun’s all-around game has been a matchup nightmare for opponents. Her defensive tenacity, court vision and offensive polish make her Korea’s most versatile threat and a true leader.
“Park JiHyun can play a lot of minutes for us. She can show great performance regardless of how much she plays. She was the oldest player in the last quarter against the Philippines and was very vocal as our leader,” said teammate Lee HaeRan, highlighting JiHyun’s commanding presence on and off the court.
Park JiHyun
Head coach Park SooHo praised her consistent excellence: “JiHyun is a really good player so she’s always among the best players we have. She is showing what she has got. She is among the players who play so well for us.”
JiHyun’s evolution was especially evident in Korea’s last few games, when she took on greater responsibility, logging extended minutes and directing both offense and defense with confidence. She embraced the challenge with fierce determination.
Note that JiHyun’s journey hasn’t been easy. After bouncing between leagues in Korea, Australia and Europe in the past few years, she’s honed a versatile game tailor-made for high-stakes moments.
“With my experience of playing overseas this responsibility (for the national team) is even more,” JiHyun said.
Her ability to influence all facets of the game—whether it be generating steals to ignite fast breaks, hitting timely threes or setting up teammates—has made her the linchpin of Korea’s system. Her performances have helped Korea deliver decisive wins, including a comprehensive victory over the Philippines on Day 5 that formalized their return to the Semi-Finals.
Of course, JiHyun’s leadership goes beyond statistics. Her vocal presence, hardworking mindset and unshakable competitive spirit inspire teammates to elevate their play.
As HaeRan remarked, “She’s our leader.”
With Korea poised to challenge for a medal, JiHyun’s determination to carry the team forward embodies their return to the top tier of women’s basketball in Asia. Her evolving role marks her as one of the continent’s most complete players and Korea’s finest hope in these crucial moments.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes remain on Park JiHyun to guide Korea’s pursuit of glory and a possible return to the Women’s Asia Cup podium.
FIBA