Zhang Ziyu represents China at the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup

Nineteen-year-old center Zhang Ziyu is competing for China at the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup. Standing between 7-3 and 7-4, she is recognized as one of the tallest active players in women's basketball. Zhang previously gained international attention at the 2024 FIBA U-18 Cup, where she earned tournament MVP honors while leading China to a silver medal. She currently plays for the Shandong Six Stars in the WCBA and is eligible for the 2027 WNBA draft. Her participation in the current World Cup comes after the team previously navigated roster challenges. Coaching staff have described her size as a rare physical advantage that creates unique matchup difficulties for opponents on the court.

• 6:20 AMYahoo Sports — Who is Zhang Ziyu? Meet China's 7-foot-2 center towering over FIBA Women's World Cup competition