The countdown is on: just weeks before the EuroBasket Women 2023, Belgian superstar Emma Meesseman is poised to lead her national team with a mix of fierce determination, unshakable focus, and a storied career that keeps getting bigger. In an exclusive interview, Meesseman reflects on a season filled with triumph, pressure, and historic milestones—both on and off the court.
“This season was something special,” Meesseman begins, recalling her journey with Fenerbahçe. “It started differently than I expected—I was injured—but it gave me time to rest, train, and refocus in Belgium. By the time I joined the team, I felt ready.” Her words reveal the resilience of a player who refuses to be defined by setbacks.
The season, she admits, came with enormous pressure. Fenerbahçe had never clinched the EuroLeague title, and the weight of expectation hung over the squad. “You feel the pressure, but it pushes you to play better. It fuels the team. And in the end, we achieved everything we aimed for.” The result? Her first Turkish Championship and her fifth EuroLeague victory—a milestone that etches her name deeper into basketball history. “It’s not about personal glory. It’s about being part of a team that makes history,” she emphasizes, reflecting on the millions of Fenerbahçe fans who celebrate their victories worldwide.
The Belgian star also opens up about adapting to life in Turkey. “The fans here are something else—completely different. Walking through Istanbul, even off the court, people recognize you. They know your stats, your story. It’s incredible.” And despite language barriers, Meesseman has embraced the local culture, picking up key Turkish phrases and diving into Istanbul’s vibrant street life—from Galata Tower to the aroma of baklava and künefe. “It’s not just basketball. Experiencing the culture, connecting with people, it makes everything richer,” she says.
On the court, her dedication continues to shine. Selected MVP of the EuroLeague Final Four, Meesseman recalls the emotional award ceremony. “Seeing my friends and family support me—it reminded me why I play. It’s not just about titles; it’s about people who believe in you.” Although she opted out of the WNBA season to rest and prepare, her sights remain high: “I want to focus on the national team and make a difference there first.”
Looking ahead to EuroBasket 2023, Meesseman acknowledges the challenges. Injuries and roster changes disrupted preparations, but the team chemistry remains strong. “We might be young and growing, but our style—fast, smart, unpredictable—can be unstoppable if we play together. The goal is realistic: win our group and be ready for the knockout stages.”
Emma’s journey isn’t just about trophies; it’s about leadership, resilience, and forging history. From dominating the EuroLeague to guiding Belgium’s national team into the continental spotlight, she embodies what it means to balance pressure with performance, culture with competition, and personal milestones with team glory.
Her message to fans is simple: “We feel your energy. We need it. Every game, every moment. Let’s make this EuroBasket unforgettable.”
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