Sophie Taylor goes international

Warragul basketballer Sophie Taylor recently returned from representing Australia at the FIBA 3x3 Under 23 World Cup in China.

Taylor was at the forefront of the Australian Gangurrus' campaign where they finished fifth, going down to eventual runners-up Canada 16-19 in the quarter finals.

It was the 19-year-old's first time representing Australia in a worldwide event, having pulled on the green and gold in several Asia and Oceania-based competitions.

Surprisingly, it also was her first time playing 3x3 basketball. The format includes a number of different rules outside the obvious three players per team including reduced point values on shots, only being played on a half court and a shorter shot clock.
Before the Gangurrus' elimination they had gone through the group stage undefeated thanks to wins over Japan, Kenya and Slovenia, as well as a forfeit win against the United States.
The States clearly didn't mind giving up a game, going on to win the gold.
Australia, who came into the tournament as the bottom-ranked side due to having never played at the World Cup before, also finished the tournament as, on average, the highest scoring nation.
Australia's under 23 men's team finished third and earned the country's first 23 and Under World Cup medal.