The Belgium women’s national basketball team started their 2017 EuroBasket performance on the right foot by narrowly defeating Montenegro, 66-64 in Group D play. Emma Meesseman scored 18 points on 7 of 13 shooting, grabbed 7 rebounds to lead the way. The final score was very close, but Belgium actually raced to an early 25-13 lead after the first quarter.
In the other game within Group D, Russia defeated Latvia, 71-59 after an early scare.
As Belgium’s best player, it’s no surprise that Meesseman’s their best scorer. But take a look at this highlight drive she made early in the first in the video above (via FIBA) or this GIF below:
Emma Meesseman doesn't need to crossover to make defenders slip. pic.twitter.com/La1kV1ueZW
— Albert Lee (@aleeinthedmv) June 16, 2017
Most players make defenders slip when they perform a crossover, like Bria Hartley.
.@Breezyyy14 #WNBAVOTE
— Bullets Forever (@BulletsForever) June 16, 2017
because this still makes a great #TBT, even if she isn't on the Mystics anymore. pic.twitter.com/WJWNNlWZvb
But Emma made a defender slip without having to change directions. All she needed to do was a pump fake. Furthermore, it’s also nice to see her take advantage of the space on the open floor for an easy shot.
It’s nice to see Meesseman show this side of her game that we don’t see enough of here on this side of the Atlantic.
Emma, PLEASE DO THIS MORE OFTEN WHEN YOU COME BACK NEXT MONTH!