Clarke gears up for another world series with Gangurrus
Sydney Flames’ Emma Clarke will have another chance to showcase her talents on the world stage, after being selected for the Australian Gangurrus squad for the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series event in Yichang, China.
Clarke, who represented the green and gold earlier this year in Wuhan, is joined by Anneli Maley, Lauren Mansfield and Marena Whittle in the Aussie squad for the August 4-5 tournament.
“It honestly means everything to play for Australia again,” Clarke, 23, said.
BECOME A FLAMES WNBL24 MEMBER TODAY
“I always dream of wearing the green and gold and when you work every day and pour everything into reaching a goal, the moment you’re able to put on the jersey means so much.
“Being able to represent those colours and the country is a real privilege and a dream come true.
“Going into my second tournament, with already some experience under my belt, I feel like I’m better prepared as an expectation has been set.
“I understand the level and competition as well as what is needed to win.
“No doubt other teams will also be in the same boat, so I’m really looking to add to that experience.”
During the 12-team tournament, the Garaungus are in pool B alongside Germany and Mongolia – with those results determining who Clarke’s side face in the finals.
“[First and foremost] We’re heading to a women’s series tournament like this to win,” the Perth product said.
“On top of gaining experience on an international stage and playing against high-level teams which will ultimately prepare the squad for qualification and high-level tournaments.
“Personally, growing from my last tournament and continuing to make my mark on the sport.”
DOWNLOAD THE FLAMES’ FULL WNBL24 SCHEDULE NOW
While still new to the shorter form of basketball, Clarke, who played with Perry Lakes in the 2023 NBL1 West competition, believes playing in competitions like this is helping make her game more all-around, ahead of her second season with the Hoops Capital side.
[3×3] is most definitely something I’m going to pursue moving forward,” the Colorado University alum said.
“It’s such a fun, exciting and tough game which is really complementary to my five-on-five game.
“The way 3×3 is played, there is no world in which it doesn’t grow your game and tap into areas which can bet lost in the five-on-five – it’s a different level of competition which is a real thrill and to play a part of the Gangurrus is something so special.”
Tune in to Clarke’s matches overseas via the FIBA 3×3 YouTube channel.