Gilas Pilipinas Women stalwart Jhazmin Joson and other Pinay hoopers are looking to level up their game after watching Game 3 of the 2024 WNBA Finals.
Local female hoops stars came out to support during the live watch party of Game 3 of the 2024 WNBA Finals between the Minnesota Lynx and New York Liberty on Thursday, October 17.
Among those present was UAAP standout Marga Jimenez, along with Gilas Pilipinas Women stalwarts Monique del Carmen and Jhazmin Joson.
[ALSO READ: Filipina ballers welcome growth of women's basketball as WNBA Finals heat up with Game 3]
After the game, the female hoopers shared their thoughts on their favorite WNBA players.
Jimenez, a former star for the DLSU Lady Archers, has long been a fan of WNBA legend Sue Bird. However, her attention is now shifting to a future star.
“I love Sue Bird, but if Paige Bueckers goes to the WNBA, she’s gonna be my new favorite,” Jimenez told One Sports.
Bueckers, a standout in college basketball, has captivated many fans with her all-around game, and Jimenez is eagerly anticipating her eventual debut.
In terms of current players, del Carmen mentioned that her focus has recently changed, given this player’s recent performance.
"Nag-change siya actually. It’s [Napheesa] Collier," Jimenez admitted, mentioning the 2024 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year and All-WNBA First Team member.
“Grabe eh parang hindi ko akalain na ‘yung Minnesota Lynx is in the top ranking right now in WNBA kasi Maya Moore was not there anymore already. Nag-step up siya sa pagkawala ni Maya Moore. And then the way she plays, she plays for everybody not just for herself,” she added.
But when asked about players she would love to have the abilities for even just a day, del Carmen didn’t hesitate to answer the question right away.
“Caitlin Clark,” del Carmen said laughingly.
Clark is of course, the WNBA Rookie of the Year and a member of the 2024 All-WNBA First Team. She is one of the five rookies in the club since 2000.
[ALSO READ: WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson, DPOY Napheesa Collier lead 2024 All-WNBA First Team]
Joson, meanwhile, admitted being drawn in by a different star—but one that also played during Game 3.
“I know a lot of people like Caitlin Clark, but seeing this Game 3, seeing Breanna Stewart... She’s a very veteran player, so with her knowledge in basketball, I idolize her,” Joson explained.
Stewart’s complete game—her ability to excel in both offense and defense—has left a lasting impression on Joson. "She plays really good defense, plays good offense, she knows how to find her teammates, so I love how she plays," she added.
“She plays really good defense, plays good offense, she knows how to find her teammates, so I love how she plays,” she added.
As the WNBA Finals continue to unfold, the admiration for these female athletes will only continue to grow as they look to push their own games to the next level.
[ALSO READ: WNBA: Sabrina Ionescu makes logo three game-winner for Liberty, pushes New York on cusp of title]
(With reports from Jamie Velasco/One Sports Digital)