Wang Siyu Reportedly Playing Through Ankle Ligament Injury; China Women’s Basketball May Need to Develop Young Guards

In the final group-stage game of the Women’s Basketball World Cup, China’s 20-point victory over Italy was closely linked to Wang Siyu’s control of the backcourt. With Li Yuan and Zhang Manman struggling to make an impact, Wang Siyu took on a large amount of responsibility despite playing through injury. She played 21 minutes, shot 2-for-6, and recorded 5 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 steals. Her assists ranked first on the team, while her plus-minus of +17 ranked third.

As an experienced veteran, Wang Siyu’s role in connecting the team on the court is evident. However, according to media figure “I Love Women’s Basketball,” her injury situation may be more serious than it appears. The report said that among the three ligaments in her right ankle, one was completely torn and another was damaged, leaving only one intact ligament providing support. The report added that Wang relied on anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medication to manage discomfort and continue playing.

Wang Siyu’s decision to play through injury also highlights the current shortage of options at China’s point guard position. Li Yuan, once regarded by Gong Luming as a future leader of the women’s national team, has struggled for consistent impact against European and American teams. Zhang Manman, who is approaching 30, also faces challenges in playmaking and shooting, while Yang Shuyu has been unable to fully balance scoring and organization when filling in at point guard.

Gong Luming has had to rely heavily on Wang Siyu. If her injury worsens, it could affect China’s performance in this World Cup and potentially impact Wang Siyu’s career.

For China’s women’s basketball team, rather than continuing to place a heavy burden on Wang Siyu, Gong Luming may need to consider giving younger players more opportunities to gradually take on larger roles. After this World Cup, players such as Ran Kejia, Xu Fengwei and Chen Rushan could receive more chances in future competitions.

This is especially true for Ran Kejia, who is set to play in the NCAA next season. At last year’s U19 World Cup, Ran averaged 19.1 points, 11.3 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. She was also previously selected by the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream and will join Xavier University in the NCAA next season, showing that her potential has received recognition.

While China can rely on players such as Luo Xinyi and Tang Ziting to strengthen the forward positions, the key point guard role remains a concern if Wang Siyu eventually retires and leaves the national team. With Wang’s national team career entering its later stage, China may need to accelerate the development of young players who have shown potential in youth competitions.