The first Slovenian in the WNBA is getting more and more enthusiastic, look at this pass

Teja Oblak, the first Slovenian player in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), continues to make a growing impact with her team, the Portland Fire. In a recent game against the Minnesota Lynx, Oblak played nearly 22 minutes and contributed 11 points, six rebounds, nine assists, one block, and two steals. She shot 4-for-9 from the field, including 2-of-3 from beyond the arc and 1-of-2 from the free-throw line. Despite missing a double-double, Oblak's performance highlighted her increasing role within the team. Oblak’s contributions have become more frequent as the season progresses. On average, she scores 6.2 points per game, while adding 1.6 rebounds and 3.0 assists. Her ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game has made her a valuable asset to the Portland Fire. The team currently sits ninth in the league standings, with eight franchises qualifying for the playoffs. However, they trail behind several teams in the race for the postseason. The Minnesota Lynx lead the Western Conference with a record of 28 wins and seven losses, followed by the Golden State Valkyries (24-9) and the Las Vegas Aces (23-11). The Dallas Wings occupy the seventh position with a 20-14 record, matching the New York Liberty in the standings. The Portland Fire, however, trails further back with just 13 wins and 20 losses. Each team plays 44 games during the regular season, making the competition fierce. In addition to Oblak, another Slovenian national team member has found success in the WNBA. Jessica Shepard, a naturalized American, plays for the Dallas Wings. She averages 14.2 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game. Shepard’s all-around play complements Oblak’s contributions, showcasing Slovenia’s growing presence in the league. Oblak’s journey to the WNBA began with her selection in the 2023 draft, where she was chosen in the second round. Since joining the league, she has adapted quickly to the professional level, demonstrating both skill and determination. Her performances have drawn attention from fans and analysts alike, who recognize her potential to continue improving. The WNBA has seen an increase in international players over the past few seasons, with Slovenia contributing its share. Oblak and Shepard represent a new wave of athletes breaking into the top-tier basketball leagues. Their success reflects broader trends of globalization in sports, where talent from around the world is increasingly valued. As the regular season approaches its midpoint, the focus shifts toward the playoff picture. With several teams locked in the race for the final spots, each game carries significant weight. For the Portland Fire, overcoming their current deficit will require consistent performances from key players like Oblak. Her continued growth could prove crucial in determining whether the team secures a spot in the postseason.